Yes as a matter of fact they can, but only certain diseases. Ringworm and mange can be transferred, as well as other diseases through contamination of the meat after slaughter, such as E. coli and...
Most people are afraid of cows because they are big, intimidating and messy creatures. However, there are cows that are also afraid of humans. So it can be both of two worlds.
We will breed them for the production of either beef or dairy products, they can also be used as draft animals (used for pulling carts), mode of transportation, or sports (bull riding, calf roping...