Rule Changes for herds that are tested for Johne’s
June 7, 2021
Our farm vet team want clients, whose herds are tested for Johne’s, as part of their CHECS health scheme, to be aware that there are some rule changes being brought in this Autumn that may affect their herd’s risk level.
From 1st October 2021, if either:
- More than 2% of animals tested, or
- More than 1 animal in herds of less than 50 animals tested
…tests positive for Johne’s disease on the blood test, then the herd will not be allowed to use follow up faecal testing to further confirm the status of these animals.
Why your herd’s risk level may change
Follow up faecal testing has often cleared blood positive animals from being classed as ‘reactors’. As the number of reactors is used to determine the herd’s risk level, then following this change, some herds’ risk levels may change.
Currently animals that test antibody positive for Johne’s (male or female) and their current offspring cannot be sold for breeding. From October 1st, this will extend to any calves the animal has given birth to in the previous 12 months.
These changes will ensure that Risk Level 1 herds are the lowest risk herds to buy from. It will also ensure that buyers can have full confidence in this status.
If you would like to discuss these changes in relation to your herd then please do get in touch on 01327 350239 or drop us an email and one of the farm team will give you a call back.