This is effective in the short term, but it perpetuates the susceptibility to that disease. Eventually, we might breed that same susceptibility into farmed elk. For now, elk are less prone to most diseases, especially those of the respiratory complex. Most elk farmers vaccinate for Chlostridial disease. The need for other vaccines, such as for those against scours, rabies, leptospirosis and others, depends on the farm location and history.
Parasite control is a necessity for elk as it is with cattle.
The intensity of control required for both depends on stocking density and herd history. Winter ticks are a concern with elk, but are rarely seen on cattle. Other parasite concerns and control strategies are very similar. Good management is the key component of a herd health program for both cattle and elk. Livestock which is well fed, which has access to comfortable resting and shelter areas, and which lives without stress, will rarely become ill.