The JD Control 10-Point Plan provides a framework for veterinary practices to design and implement Johne’s disease control strategies. It emphasises data systems, appointing a champion, farmer engagement through knowledge exchange, tailored risk assessment, and ongoing surveillance, with individual plans developed collaboratively and reviewed annually in line with NJMP guidance.
Analysis of milk ELISA data from 154 herds (2013–2022) shows improving Johne’s disease indicators, test value and within-herd prevalence. Farmers increasingly cull or avoid breeding from repeat-positive cows. Disease burden remains concentrated in high-ATV herds. Improvements coincide with NJMP rollout and widespread adoption of JD management plans and JD Tracker.
This research clearly demonstrates the impact of SICCT on Johne’s milk antibody results. Current recommendations to leave a minimum interval of 42 days (milk) and 90 days (blood) between a SICCT and Johne’s test remain and should be followed, unless directed otherwise by
your veterinary surgeon.
The National Johne’s Management Plan is now mandatory under Red Tractor, requiring most UK dairy farms to implement surveillance, risk assessments, and veterinary control plans. The Johne’s Progress Tracker supports this by benchmarking performance, analysing disease drivers, and helping veterinarians and farmers improve control strategies through better risk assessment and informed decision-making.
Johne’s disease is a chronic, incurable condition in cattle, though clinical signs are rare. Its impact lies in links to mastitis, lameness, and reduced productivity, leading to higher culling rates. Modern dairy practices have increased subclinical spread, but improved management and control strategies can reduce prevalence and enhance herd health.
This article outlines practical implementation of the National Johne’s Management Plan, focusing on improving engagement and compliance to control disease. It emphasises husbandry measures to prevent transmission to youngstock and builds on prior discussion of JD’s impact, economics, and transmission, providing actionable guidance for effective on-farm disease management strategies.