PAN Livestock Services Ltd Director, Dr James Hanks, led a workshop on the importance of the vet–farmer relationship in Johne’s Disease (JD) control at the British Cattle Veterinary Association Congress, held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on 9th October 2025.

Since 2015, JD Tracker parameters have improved nationally, most notably average test value (ATV) which has halved and within-herd prevalence (% positive tests) which has decreased by over two-thirds. However, progress has varied significantly between veterinary practices. Interviews with farmers who described themselves as disengaged from JD control highlighted the crucial role of the vet–farmer relationship and the difficulties of interpreting milk ELISA test results without veterinary guidance.

Under Phase 3 of the National Johne’s Management Plan, the GB dairy industry will be required to demonstrate a Johne’s Control Index (JCI) below 5.5 by 2030, whereby the JCI is equivalent to the ATV. Dr Hanks’ workshop showcased how one consultancy group successfully enhanced farmer engagement, achieving a reduction in JCI from 8.0 to 5.6 over three years. JD Advisors and industry experts discussed methods for evaluating practice or consultancy group performance, sharing experiences from herds that have both improved and struggled with JD control. Take-home messages for JD Advisors included (1) identifying limitations within practices that hinder effective control, (2) making better use of risk assessment and milk ELISA data, (3) measuring and monitoring their practice’s JCI to track performance over time and (4) exploring alternative methods to engage with ‘hard-to-reach’ clients.

To access the BCVA Congress proceedings, please click HERE.

To learn how InterHerd+ can help you control JD, please click HERE.