Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic, infectious, and zoonotic disease caused mainly by Mycobacterium bovis, a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. It affects cattle, other domestic animals, and wildlife, generating serious challenges for animal health, public health, and livestock productivity. Human infection occurs primarily through the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products or direct contact with infected animals, making agricultural, dairy, and veterinary workers particularly vulnerable. Globally, bTB remains a persistent issue. According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), 29 of 82 surveyed countries (35.4%) reported cases in both cattle and wildlife, highlighting its widespread nature and the complexity of cross-species transmission. The coexistence of infection in livestock and wildlife complicates eradication and requires a One Health perspective to achieve sustainable control. In India, the estimated prevalence of bTB in cattle is about 7.3%, meaning nearly 21.8 million animals could be infected. This high rate reduces productivity and elevates the risk of zoonotic transmission. Addressing bTB demands coordinated, multisectoral strategies, including regular testing and culling, milk pasteurization, stronger biosecurity, and awareness programs. Enhancing veterinary capacity and integrating animal, human, and environmental health approaches are essential to mitigate the impact of bTB.
Fellows et al. (Mon,) studied this question.