Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (pronunciation: boh-vine spon-jih-form en-sef-uh-lop-uh-thee), commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects cattle. The disease is characterized by the presence of abnormal, misfolded proteins known as prions in the brain of the affected animal.
Etymology
The term "Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy" is derived from the following components: "Bovine" refers to cattle, "Spongiform" refers to the sponge-like appearance of the brain tissue in affected animals, and "Encephalopathy" is a general term for diseases that affect the brain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy include changes in temperament (such as nervousness or aggression), abnormal posture, incoordination and difficulty in rising, decreased milk production, and weight loss despite an increase in appetite.
Transmission
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy is believed to be transmitted through the consumption of contaminated meat and bone meal, a common protein supplement in cattle feed. The disease can also be transmitted to humans, causing a variant form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control measures for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy include banning the use of meat and bone meal in cattle feed, culling of infected animals, and strict surveillance.
See Also
References
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