Development of a model for animal health monitoring system in Gyeongnam I. Design, data and frequencies of selected dairy cattle diseases

A national animal health monitoring system(NAHMS) in Gyeongnam area was started from 1997 to develop statistically valid data for use in estimating disease frequencies in dairy cattle, and the associated costs. The objectives of this study were to : (1) discribe what was done to implement and maintain the system in Gyeongnam ; (2) present selected disease frequencies ; (3) discuss the epidemiological consideration of what was done and implications for the results obtained. Veterinary Medical Officers(VMOs-professors and graduate students from Gyeongsang National University, Faculty of Gyeongnam Livestock Promotion Institute, and Clinic veterinarians) served as data collectors. After training on current disease and management problems of dairy cattle, interview techniques, sampling methods, and data collection instruments, the VMOs participated in selection of the sample herds and data gathering. Forty of 167 dairy herds were selected randomly and the VMOs visited farms once a month for 12 months to collect data about management, disease, inventory, production, preventive treatment, financial and any other relevant data. Strict data quality control devices were used. Specific feed-back was developed for the producers and data collectors. Of the three age groups studied, cows had the greatest number of disease problems. The six disorders found most frequently were (from the highest to the lowest) breeding problems, clinical mastitis, birth problems, gastrointestinal problems. metabolic problems, and lameness. In young stock, respiratory, multiple system, breeding problems, and gastrointestinal problems were pre dominant, whereas in calves, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and integumental problems were major.