By Andi Anderson
Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) remains one of the most significant diseases affecting cattle herds worldwide. According to Dr. Michelle Arnold, DVM, MPH, DABVP (Food Animal), Ruminant Extension Veterinarian Professor, University of Kentucky, the disease can negatively impact productivity, reproduction, and overall herd health, resulting in substantial economic losses for cattle producers.
BVD is a contagious viral disease that can cause infertility, reproductive failure, respiratory illness, digestive disorders, and, in severe cases, fatal Mucosal Disease. When pregnant cows become infected, the virus can cross the placenta and affect the unborn calf. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, infection may lead to fetal loss, abortion, stillbirth, birth defects, or weak calves.
One of the greatest concerns associated with BVD is the development of persistently infected (PI) calves. If infection occurs during a critical period of pregnancy, calves may be born carrying the virus for life. These animals become continuous sources of infection because they shed large amounts of the virus every day. Most PI calves appear healthy, making laboratory testing essential for identification.
PI cattle play a major role in spreading BVD throughout the cattle industry. They can infect animals through direct contact, saliva, nasal discharge, contaminated feed and water sources, transportation vehicles, and shared facilities. In stocker and backgrounding operations, exposure to a PI animal can weaken the immune system of other calves, making them more vulnerable to respiratory diseases and increasing treatment costs and death losses.
Experts emphasize that successful BVD control requires a three-part approach. Producers should implement strong biosecurity measures, maintain an effective vaccination program for breeding cattle, and identify and remove all PI animals from the herd. While vaccination is important, disease prevention depends heavily on management practices carried out throughout the year.
Biosecurity plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of introducing BVD into a herd. One of the most common ways the virus enters a farm is through purchased cattle, particularly pregnant females. Newly acquired animals should be quarantined for at least two weeks, and preferably three to four weeks, before joining the herd. During this period, animals should be tested and monitored for signs of illness.
Veterinarians are important partners in developing biosecurity plans tailored to individual farms. Research has shown that producers are more likely to follow recommendations when they have a trusted relationship with their veterinarian, understand the economic benefits of prevention, and participate in shared decision-making discussions.
Additional preventive measures include purchasing cattle from herds with known health histories, avoiding unnecessary contact with neighboring cattle, maintaining secure fencing, and properly cleaning equipment. Since the BVD virus can survive in cool and moist environments, sanitation and hygiene are essential components of biosecurity.
Wildlife, rodents, and other animals can also contribute to disease spread by contaminating feed and water sources. Producers should take steps to minimize these risks wherever possible.
Although complete protection from disease exposure is impossible, proper isolation of new arrivals and routine testing are proven methods for reducing transmission. Understanding the risks associated with PI animals is critical for effective disease management.
The key message for cattle producers is that prevention is more cost-effective than treating disease outbreaks after they occur. A comprehensive strategy that combines vaccination, testing, quarantine, and sound herd management can significantly reduce the impact of BVD. By working closely with veterinarians and maintaining strong biosecurity practices, producers can protect herd health, improve productivity, and support the long-term success of their cattle operations.
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Categories: Ohio, Livestock