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Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) the Trojan horse in your herd
Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) is an infectious disease that can quietly invade a herd with devastating consequences. Most dangerously, the virus can act as a Trojan horse: a calf may appear perfectly healthy on the outside, while secretly operating as a Persistently Infected (PI) shedder that continuously spreads the disease to others.
While BVD outbreaks can lead to severe economic losses, they are entirely preventable. By implementing proactive management, strict hygiene protocols, and targeted monitoring, you can safeguard your livestock and keep your herd thriving.
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What causes Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD)?
Bovine Viral Diarrhea is caused by the Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV), a highly contagious pathogen belonging to the Pestivirus family. While BVDV is a reportable animal disease due to its impact on livestock, it poses no risk to human health.
The virus primarily exists in two distinct strains: BVDV-1, which is the most widespread and typically results in milder symptoms, and BVDV-2, which is less common but often leads to far more severe clinical outbreaks. Understanding which strain is present is key to managing its impact.
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?
Because bovine viral diarrhea is highly contagious, an outbreak can have serious consequences for your cows and your business. The virus weakens the immune system, decreases fertility, and in severe cases, can be fatal. Preventing infection is therefore essential. By implementing the right management measures, such as strict hygiene protocols, proper separation of animal groups, and regular health checks, you can effectively 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))
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