In Texas, we test TEACHERS for TB because we have so many immigrants who are positive. Seems like a good idea to make sure we are not contracting it and spreading it to others. As I said in the other thread, you don't want this disease. Some things the government does are *not* a plot to separate you from your money or create impediments to your business. They are public health issues and safeguards.

We also test our cattle here for Brucellosis. If you have ever met someone who has had 'bangs' you would know why. The common name for Brucellosis in humans is Undulant Fever. That is what you have. Fever that ratchets up and down unexpectedly. You are TIRED quite a bit, and you never know when it is going to recur on into the future. Most of the veterinarians here have had it, and many of the cowboys, feed lot workers, auction barn employees, etc.

Brucellosis is in the deer population, so there is a possibility that it could cross back into cattle. Some argue a remote chance, but wouldn't you rather be safe?

So, chill on the testing. I sure wouldn't want to be the one who suppled TB carrying goat milk to a child, a pregnant woman, an immune suppressed man who had just had a kidney transplant, etc. Would you?

Finn

-- Rose (open_rose@hotmail.com), November 20, 2001