Prevalence of tuberculosis and paratuberculosis in some captive deer of Maharashtra

Incidence of tuberculosis in various zoo animals has been reported by many workers. A total of 48 captive deer were tested for tuberculosis and paratuberculosis including 12 deer from 4 zoo/parks of Maharashtra to know the prevalence of these two diseases. Selected samples from different centers were examined serologically. Highest prevalence of tuberculosis was noted at Mumbai (33.33%) due to compact population density, which increases the chance of contact of tuberculosis carrier persons and zoo attendants apart from infected animals. Mycobacterium of both bovine and human type was diagnosed using specific antigen.