Cattle farmers are encouraged to watch for symptoms of Bovine Ephemeral Fever, a viral disease of cattle commonly known as ‘Three Day Sickness’.
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Cases have recently been detected just north of the Hunter Local Land Services region. Producers should prepare for the disease, which often moves down the coast in mosquitoes and biting midges in summer.
A Bovine Ephemeral Fever vaccine is an option, especially for high value animals like bulls who can suffer temporary infertility for up to six months, as a result of infection.
The vaccine is only available from veterinarians and should be given well before the virus arrives to ensure adequate protection. Producers wanting to vaccinate should not delay and contact their local veterinary practitioner.
Previously infected cattle typically develop long term immunity so may not require vaccination. However, the virus was less active last year so younger stock and introduced animals may not have immunity.
Once the virus is circulating in an area, cases can continue in a herd over a number of weeks.
Affected animals have a sudden onset of fever over 40 degrees, become lame and stiff in their joints, are reluctant to move and will often go down. They frequently also drool, have watery eyes and a nasal discharge.
Heavy animals, such as bulls and pregnant cows, are the worst affected.
Farmers should provide food, water and in hot weather shelter from the sun to prevent deaths in down animals due to heat stress and dehydration. Anti-inflammatory medication can also assist by relieving fever and inflammation.
Infected cattle are typically only unwell for several days, hence the name Three Day Sickness. However, some cattle can take weeks to get up. Farmers persisting with such animals need to be conscious of their comfort and welfare during this prolonged recovery period.
For more details contact Dr Lyndell Stone on 0429 532 855, your local Hunter Local Land Services District Veterinarian or your local private veterinarian.
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