Viral diseases of cattle

Viral diseases can affect respiratory health, reproduction and immunity, and similar signs do not necessarily identify the same infection. Viruses involved in bovine respiratory disease include bovine herpesvirus 1, BRSV, parainfluenza-3 and BVDV. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

IBR and BVD require different assessments

IBR is associated with bovine herpesvirus 1, which can establish latency and later provide a source of infection. Infection can affect the respiratory or reproductive tract. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

BVD can be clinically inapparent, affect immune function and reproduction, and result in the birth of persistently infected calves. Identifying PI animals is an important part of control, not merely treating visible diarrhoea. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Protection before introduction

Biosecurity, diagnostic testing and a suitable vaccination programme are complementary measures. For BVD, testing replacement cattle and separating new arrivals should be considered before mixing. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Vaccination is not one universal timetable for every farm: age, pregnancy, previous vaccination and product characteristics matter. Discuss the programme with the herd veterinarian. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Prepare useful information

Record the affected groups, when signs began, recent purchases and animal movements, previous vaccinations and available test results. Include any concurrent respiratory, digestive or reproductive problems.

A mineral supplement or general claim about immunity does not replace diagnosis of infection. Contact the herd veterinarian about suspected infectious disease.

Read the separate guides on BVD and mucosal disease and IBR/IPV. Discuss feeding questions with AquaBlend.

Educational material, not a substitute for veterinary consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be agreed with the herd veterinarian.