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Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) the Trojan horse in your herd
Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is an infectious viral disease that can spread unnoticed, like a silent intruder, in the herd - with serious consequences. Even more problematic, the virus can cover as the Trojan horse in your herd disguised as a calf, looking healthy but being a secret spread of the virus as a persistently infected (PI).
Infections with BVD can have a major economic impact; however, this does not need to happen. With preventive measures, strong hygiene, and the right help, you can keep your herd healthy.
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What causes bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) in cows?
BVD is a notifiable animal disease that is harmless to humans and is caused by the highly contagious bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). A virus from the pestivirus family. There are two main types: BVDV-1, which is more common and usually milder, and BVDV-2, which is less common but has more severe consequences.
How does bovine viral diarrhea spread in cows?
BVD can be transmitted in different ways.
- Persistently infected (PI) animals: Calves that get infected with the virus in the womb. Looking healthy, these calves can be lifelong spreaders of BVD.
- Direct transmission: Through airborne, conjunctiva, oral-nasal, or genital mucus.
- Indirect transmission: Through contaminated visitors, equipment, clothes, or other materials.
The amount of virus infected cows can spread differs between persistently infected animals (rather big quantities and lifelong) and transiently infected (TI) animals (rather small quantities and shorter). The latter are only infected for a short time and can fight the virus on their own.
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What are the symptoms of bovine viral diarrhea in cows?
BVD can be difficult to spot, as some cattle show no symptoms at all. In cases of symptoms, these can differ depending on the age and immune status. Calves may initially appear vital and healthy, however can already be infected.There is a difference between early-stage signs (1-5) and advanced signs (6-8).
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- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Reduction in feed intake
- Slight cough and/or runny nose
- Declining milk yield
- Miscarriages or infertility
- Weak or stillborn calves
- Changes in the mucous membrane of the mouth
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How to protect cows from infection with BVD?
Being a contagious disease, the spread of bovine viral diarrhea can have serious consequences for your cows and subsequently for your business. BVD can impact your cow's immune system, lead to decreased fertility, and in the worst case, to death. Therefore, preventing your cows from getting infected with the virus is of high importance. With the right measures in place - hygiene, separation of animal groups, and regular checks - you are able to reduce the risk of BVD spreading on your farm.
Steps to prevent bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) on your cattle farm
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Introduce a color-coding system
Prevent the spread of BVD by not using the same materials for all age groups. By introducing a color-coding system, you can ensure that tools and clothing are used exclusively for one specific animal group. This helps prevent the transmission of the virus between groups.:format(webp))
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Separate different animal groups
Protect your calves. Animals that are persistently infected can transmit the virus to newborn calves. Also ensure there is no contact with pregnant cattle or between calves to reduce the risk of infection. Furthermore, introduce compartmentalization and organize your workflow to begin with young cows and end with older ones. Keep sick animals separate from the rest.:format(webp))
Monitoring & health checks
Closely monitor your cows for BVD by checking antibody levels. Carry out ear punch tests on newborn calves to check their BVD status. Also consult your veterinarian for regular health checks and advice on vaccination.Frequently asked questions about bovine viral diarrhea in cows (BVD)
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