Paratuberculosis is widespread in Denmark and a voluntary control programme was established in 2006, aiming at providing tools for farmers to control infections, and to ultimately reduce the prevalence in the country. Approximately 1150 (24%) of dairy farmers were enrolled in the programme by September 2007. Participating herds test all lactating cows four times / year by use of a milk antibody ELISA. The test-results are recommended to be used for risk-based management of infectious animals. This risk-based approach is aimed to reduce the workload of herd managers, thereby making implementation of changes more feasible than if all cows had to be managed with increased awareness. The test results are also used for communication to farmers, which is a central part of the programme. Communication between farmers and advisors also takes place via risk assessments, which helps the farmers identify risk areas of transmission. The end result is that farmers are well informed and play a role in management of their herd health.

Farmers are informed that the control programme in their herd is expected to last 6 to 8 years. Therefore, there is a continued need from farmers, their advisors and the central administration to identify tools and methods to ensure ongoing enthusiasm.

A surveillance component may be added to the programme at a later stage, but currently no officially recognised recommendations are available related to trade of live animals. The surveillance component may be a next step to maintain farmers in the programme and encourage more farmers to join.