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Colorado trichomoniasis update — 7 counties affected

BROOMFIELD, Colo. – The Colorado Department of Agriculture reminds cattle owners to test their herd for Bovine Trichomoniasis. As of 3/1/2015, there are 13 positive trich locations in the following Colorado counties: Conejos, Custer, Huerfano, Las Animas, Park, Prowers, and Pueblo.

As of January 1, 2015, changes to the Trich rules have become effective. The main changes are:

• The official test for import into Colorado or for change of ownership within the state is the PCR test. The previous rule allowed culture for import or change of ownership.



• The official test is now applicable for 60 days. The former rule stated the test was only valid for 30 days prior to importation, change of ownership, or movement to grazing associations.

• The test eligible age for bulls, for import into Colorado or for change of ownership, is 18 months of age. The previous rule had an age eligibility of 12 months for bulls imported into Colorado and had some provision for virgin bull status.



“Testing and monitoring herds for trichomoniasis is the best method of controlling this infection,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr. “Cattle owners should talk to their veterinarian to determine the best management practices for their herd.”

“Trich” is a costly, yet preventable, infection that can affect dairy and beef cattle. If bulls become infected, the percentage of open cows can increase from 5 to 30 percent. Trich is a venereal disease of cattle caused by Trichomonas foetus (T. Foetus). The T. foetus infection causes fertility problems, such as early embryonic death or abortion of the calf, and is asymptomatic in bulls.

Colorado trich regulations require all bulls changing ownership or being transported into Colorado be tested for T. foetus unless the animal is going to slaughter. Bulls on public land grazing permits or with grazing associations must also be tested prior to turn-out.

Several diagnostic laboratories across the state offer trich testing; samples must be taken by an accredited veterinarian and results will be available between 4 to 6 days. For testing locations, visit http://www.colorado.gov/ag/animals and click on “Livestock Health.”

–Colorado Department of Ag