Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) - Cattle

How to protect your herd against EHD?

Since its emergence in France in 2023, Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) has raised concerns among many farmers. Although rarely fatal, this viral disease can weaken your cattle, leading to a reduction in milk production, decreased feed intake, and slower growth in young animals, which in turn causes economic losses.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is essential to protect your herd.

Protect your animals today with appropriate measures and vaccination.

What causes EHD?

EHD, caused by an Orbivirus, primarily affects cattle and cervids. This virus is transmitted exclusively by midges from the Culicoides genus, which thrive in warm and humid climates, particularly at the end of summer. Climate change exacerbates this phenomenon, thus increasing the risk for livestock.

Unlike other cattle diseases, EHD poses no risk to humans, whether through the consumption of meat or milk.

How is the virus transmitted?

Only Culicoides midges can transmit EHD. They infect an animal by biting an infected cow, then can spread the virus to a healthy animal during their next bite.

It is important to note that EHD is not contagious between animals: an infected cow cannot transmit the disease directly to other cows. The spread depends solely on the presence of these biting insects, which are particularly active in warm and humid areas.

Symptoms of EHD in cattle

While most infected cattle remain asymptomatic, some show clinical signs that can affect their productivity. These symptoms weaken the animals and directly impact farm performance.

Moderate to high fever
Lameness, related to limb lesions
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Breathing difficulties
Erosion or ulcers on the muzzle or inside the month

5 preventive measures against EHD in cattle

Protecting your animals from EHD requires a combined strategy, including environmental management, vaccination, and active monitoring. Here are the key preventive measures to reduce the risks for your herd:

Step 1

Limit waste and optimize cleaning

To limit the proliferation of midges, manage manure, leftover food, and excreta effectively, as their moisture creates ideal breeding grounds. Ensure regular cleaning of feeding areas and avoid the accumulation of organic matter. Proper storage of bedding and manure is crucial to prevent the creation of favorable conditions for midge reproduction.

Step 2

Insecticide treatment for your animals

With a veterinarian's prescription, you can apply suitable external parasiticides, such as pyrethroids. These treatments help limit midge attacks, although they do not eliminate them entirely. Their effectiveness usually lasts 7 to 10 days.

Step 3

Optimize ventilation

Good ventilation reduces humidity in buildings, making the environment less favorable for midges. Make sure to maintain your ventilation systems, especially in summer, to ensure optimal air circulation.

Step 4

Monitor symptoms

Early detection of clinical signs, such as fever or lameness, is essential to minimize the impact of EHD. Be attentive to unusual behaviors and contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect an infection. Quick intervention can help limit the impact of EHD on your herd.

Step 5

Vaccination: an essential tool

A specific vaccine against serotype 8 is available and recommended. It reduces the risk of infection, clinical symptoms, and slows the spread of the virus within herds. Vaccination is particularly effective at the end of summer and in the autumn. Consult your veterinarian to incorporate this measure into your health strategy.

Act now to protect your herd!

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease can be controlled with simple and effective preventive measures. Protect your cattle today by combining biosecurity, building optimization, and vaccination.

For more information, contact your veterinarian or consult the official recommendations from health authorities.