The Gosamrakshana Shala of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has been witnessing the spread of a contagious disease, as more than 50 cows were reportedly infected with Brucellosis.

The Times of India reported that there were nearly 3,100 cows and bulls at the goshala, with milk from the dairy farm used in all TTD temples. However, a separate shed has been built for the animals that were detected to show symptoms of the disease.

"It is very difficult to detect the disease, it is possible only when the animals are pregnant. As a result of this the animal will suffer a miscarriage and lose their ability to reproduce," Director of the Gosamrakshana Sala K Harnatha Reddy told TOI.

This comes after a similar incident in February this year, when a dozen cows were infected by the disease.

Brucellosis occurs when a certain type of bacteria infects animals. While the disease is also known to affect humans, a particular strain of this bacteria is known to severely affect cattle, causing abortions, body pains and arthritic joints.

In several countries, it is mandatory for the cattle to get a vaccination as a calf for the disease. 

However, the TTD gets most of its cows as adults, as they are donated, which makes it tough to vaccinate them. 

According to the TTD's website, the Goshala was set up in 1956 with the objective "to serve as an abode for the holy cattle received as donation and to maintain them by providing good environment, management and food."

Most of the cows are donated to the TTD by farmers and devotees, after the animals get old and serve no more economic purpose.