An outbreak of bovine hyperkeratosis in New Zealand

Abstract

Extract A condition affecting cattle, mostly during the winter months, and characterized by hyperkeratosis, proliferative stomatitis, and other alimentary tract lesions was first recorded in New York State in 1939. Subsequently other outbreaks were recorded, until by 1946–47 they had assumed serious proportions and occurred over a large portion of the United States of America, where the disease was popularly known as “X Disease.” Among the aetiological agents considered, were transmissible infective agents, toxic substances and nutritional factors, including trace elements.