Connect with us

Farm & Ranch

Contagious Ecthyma

Published

on

By Barry Whitworth, DVM

Contagious Ecthyma (CE) is a highly contagious viral disease found throughout the world wherever sheep are kept. The virus primarily affects young lambs and kids within a few weeks after birth. It also is seen among weaned lambs and kids that are comingled such as in feedlot situations. Older adults not previously exposed or with compromised immune system may be affected as well as some other domestic and wild animals. Although no studies have been done, the disease most likely causes significant economic losses. Economic losses are attributed to weight loss and death loss. The disease is zoonotic, which means the virus can infect humans. The human disease is referred to as ORF. Some other common names for the disease are sore mouth, ORF, scabby mouth and contagious pustular dermatitis.

To read more pick up a copy of the November 2019 NTFR issue. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.

Continue Reading

Farm & Ranch

Hazards of Backyard Poultry

Published

on

By

By Barry Whitworth, DVM

Having backyard poultry is a popular agriculture enterprise. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 0.8 percent of all households in the United States have chickens. People keep chickens for a variety of reasons with table eggs being one of the more common reasons.

Unfortunately, some of these poultry producers are not aware of the hazards that come with keeping poultry because many times they carry pathogens but appear healthy.
Chickens are carriers of several zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that can be passed from animals to humans. According to a recent survey in Pennsylvania, a majority of backyard poultry producers were aware of the dangers of avian influenza. However, this study also revealed that far fewer producers were aware of the risk of possible exposure to Salmonella and Campylobacter.

The lack of knowledge about the hazards of raising poultry likely contributes to the continued issues of Salmonella outbreaks associated with backyard poultry. In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,072 illnesses of Salmonella linked to backyard poultry, and 272 of those patients required hospitalization. Oklahoma reported 43 individuals with the disease.

To read more, pick up a copy of the April issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

Continue Reading

Farm & Ranch

Ag Elsewhere: Wyoming

Published

on

By

By Tressa Lawrence

Babies are tucked away in every nook and cranny. Many ranchers across Wyoming have baby animals popping up all over this time of year.

Continue Reading

Farm & Ranch

Ag Elsewhere: Montana

Published

on

By

By Lindsey Monk

Another load of grain in to keep feeding the calves until the green grass can really start popping.

Continue Reading
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad

Trending