Bovine TB case in Sask. could have painful consequences

Jul 07, 2023

Two cows from a Saskatchewan ranch have tested positive for bovine tuberculosis, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

In February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture notified CFIA of a positive test for bovine TB in a tissue sample from a cow exported to an American feedlot from Saskatchewan in September 2022.

The herd of origin was tested in May, reactor animals slaughtered and two cases of bovine TB confirmed June 19.

The next steps could be painful for ranchers as CFIA officials begin to identify the origin of the infected cows and any contacts they may have had with other herds. Based on past circumstances, these measures have resulted in large-scale culling to stamp out the disease.

“The standard epidemiological approach will apply,” said Dr. Jamie Rothenburger, assistant professor at the University of Calgary’s faculty of veterinary medicine.

Click here to see more...

Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.