Discuss best practice management strategies for reducing the spread of cryptosporidium within a cattle herd-
Include the following in the discussion:
housing of cows
o cattle farm should not be overcrowded- Explain how and why high-intensity cattle farms may lead to higher transmission of cryptosporidium to
other cows-
o isolate cryptosporidium infected cows from healthy cows- Why is this important for reducing cryptosporidium transmission within a herd?
o isolate young calves from older cows- Explain why this reduces the potential spread of cryptosporidiosis within a herd-
0 Concrete flooring for young calves; easier to clean- Discuss any other sanitary practices- Explain how and why good sanitary practices reduce the
spread of cryptosporidium within a heard-
Feeding practices
0 Separate eating area from defecation area- Reduces risk of cows contracting cryptosporidiosis from sick cows-
0 Drinking water sources- Direct access to surface water that is contaminated with cryptosporidium can lead to infection- Elaborate-
Make sure to know the health of imported cows- Explain how they could bring cryptosporidiosis into the farm-