Epidemiology of Ringworm in Cattle

Trichophyton verrucosum is responsible for most ringworm infections in cattle. Under optimal conditions, fungal spores are able to survive for many months in the environment.

Influencing factors

• Age: Young animals are very susceptible to infection. Ringworm is common in young calves between two and seven months of age. This is due to poor immunity and lack of previous exposure.
• Intensive management systems: Especially if there is overcrowding of young animals.
• Low immunity: Poor nutrition, concurrent disease, use of immunosuppressive drugs.
• Environmental factors: hot, humid climates; calves kept indoors or exposed to foggy weather with little or no sunlight

Transmission

The environment is the major source of infective fungi.

Spores can be spread by:

• clinically infected animals - main source of infection
• asymptomatic carriers
• fomites (e.g. brushes, gates, feed carts)