Bovine tuberculosis is a serious disease that affects cattle and can be transmitted to humans, though human cases have not been reported in France for 20 years. The disease has raised concerns among farmers in the Orne department, where some have opted to cull their infected herds either entirely or selectively. Bovine tuberculosis is classified by the European Union as a disease that must be eradicated. Countries maintain a disease-free status if the number of cases detected in a year does not exceed 0.1% of their livestock. In 2025, France had 0.07% of its livestock infected, but this level was already reached by the end of June 2026, raising concerns about the year's final months. A new screening campaign will resume in the autumn in areas under reinforced disease prevention measures. Bovine tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis, which is difficult to eliminate. It can survive in water, soil, and pastures for several months and is resistant to drying, acids, and many disinfectants. It can remain airborne in buildings for up to 30 minutes during winter. The disease is often asymptomatic in animals, with a long incubation period and slow progression. It is transmitted through respiratory contact, urine, feces, and other bodily fluids. Pasteurization of milk has been a key method in controlling the disease in France. However, the bacterium does not trigger an immune response that can be detected through a simple blood test, making it difficult to identify in infected animals. There is no preventive treatment for bovine tuberculosis, and vaccination is not used because it can interfere with diagnostic tests. Farmers affected by the disease must choose between total culling of their herd or selectively culling infected animals. These decisions must follow strict procedures, and the French government has recently relaxed some rules to improve the acceptance of these measures. "These farmers are courageous," said Edouard Anquetil, a bovine tuberculosis expert in Orne. "They cull their animals to protect all French farms and the beef and dairy sectors." In 2026, the Orne department recorded eight outbreaks of bovine tuberculosis, compared to two in 2025. The disease is prevalent in the Swiss Normandy area, which includes valleys, groves, and pastures. The strain of Mycobacterium bovis found in this region is specific to Lower Normandy: GB35-SB0134. The local government assists affected farmers through financial compensation for losses in milk and meat production. This compensation is tax-exempt and has no upper limit, ensuring that farmers can repopulate their herds after culling. However, repopulation must follow strict health protocols, including screening for other diseases before introducing new cattle. The government also covers some of the repopulation costs, though with a limit. Farmers are advised to work closely with their veterinarians to monitor their herds and respond quickly to any health issues.