This article was first published in the Nebraska Cattlemen Magazine, February 2026.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), zoonotic diseases are pathogens that can spread from animals to humans, leading to illness. 

There are several different germs that have the potential to be zoonotic, with some more prevalent than others. 

While it is important to familiarize yourself with all potential areas of concern, this article will focus on diseases that may be more commonly observed following contact with young, scouring calves.

Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis (Crypto) is a common disease that causes severe, watery diarrhea in both animals and humans. Crypto is caused by a very small parasite called Cryptosporidium, which can live in the environment for months.  Once ingested by the animal, the parasite completes its life cycle in the intestines and is shed in the feces. Crypto can be spread to humans through oral contact with contaminated soil, water, or feces. Zoonotic transmission often occurs during calving season when treating infected calves. 

Salmonellosis

Salmonella is a widespread gram-negative bacteria that may cause diarrhea in young calves, with dairy calves being most prevalent. Infected cattle range in age from under one month to adult, with most patients lacking adequate colostrum intake at birth. A human outbreak from contact with dairy calves infected with Salmonella occurred in 2018, leading to 56 cases with 17 hospitalizations. Salmonella can also be spread by ingestion of contaminated food sources, including unpasteurized milk.

E. coli 

Enterotoxigenic E. coli is a bacteria that affects calves between one to four days of age.  Newborn calves are exposed to E. coli through environmental contamination. Risk of infection increases when calving in contaminated environments. E. coli can be directly spread to humans through fecal-oral contamination. 

Prevention

Zoonotic diseases can be prevented with proper protection. 

• Consider an isolation area for treating sick calves that can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.  
• A footbath containing disinfectant is helpful to prevent the spread in and out of the treatment area.  Once the footbath contains organic material, it should be replaced with a fresh solution.  
• Designate footwear and outerwear that can be easily cleaned or disposed after use.  
• Keep a separate area to store work clothes once inside. 
• Wear gloves and avoid touching your face when around animals. 
• Always wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating, drinking, or using tobacco products.

While all people are susceptible to these diseases, young children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are at greater risk.  

Biosecurity is vital to prevent the spread of disease in both animals and people.  

To find resource to create a biosecurity plan on your operation, visit https://www.bqa.org/resources/biosecurity-resources.  For further information or questions, contact Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance at nebraskaBQA@unl.edu or 308-633-0158.