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Can bovine tuberculosis be transmitted to cows through artificial insemination if the bull tests positive for TB?

Last Updated: October 08, 2008

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An uncommon route of infection for bovine tuberculosis, is intrauterine infection by use of infected semen. Cases of tuberculosis Orchitis (inflamed, infected testicles) are rare. Exhaled air, feces, urine, milk and vaginal and uterine discharges are the primary routes for the bacteria to be excreted. Air-borne and soil-borne are the primary means of transmission. Use of semen from infected bulls would be a risk for transmission. In the United States tuberculosis of cattle is a reportable disease and government veterinarians are responsible for deciding what to do with affected and potentially exposed cattle.

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