Which disease control program was established in 1917?

The establishment of the disease control program for bovine tuberculosis in 1917 marked a significant advancement in animal health regulation. This program was initiated in response to the recognition that bovine tuberculosis posed a serious health risk, not only to cattle but also to humans through the consumption of infected milk and beef. The program aimed to reduce the incidence of this disease through efforts such as state-funded testing and the establishment of protocols for the identification and removal of infected animals from herds.

The importance of this program is underscored by its focus on both improving animal health and safeguarding public health, which has had lasting implications for both agriculture and veterinary practice. It illustrates early efforts to manage zoonotic diseases—those that can transfer from animals to humans—signifying an awareness of the interconnectedness of animal and human health that continues to inform disease control initiatives today.

In contrast, bovine brucellosis and scrapie, while also critical in their historical contexts, were established and recognized in different timeframes, with brucellosis control efforts beginning in the 1930s and scrapie being addressed more prominently in the mid-20th century. Similarly, avian influenza control programs came much later as awareness and outbreaks increased in the 20th century.