The prevalence of BRD in beef and dairy cattle production

Zoetis has recently presented the results of an ambitious field study conducted on farms in Spain about the prevalence of Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) pathogens in beef and dairy cattle production.

The objective of Zoetis with this study has been to reveal the main agents involved in BRD at the national level, in order to optimize the planning of health and vaccination programs, adapting them to the health status of the farms. In total, more than 100 farms with an annual total census of over 300,000 animals have been sampled.

The prevalence of the four main viruses present in BRD (Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR), Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD), Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Parainfluenza 3 Virus (Pi3)) has been studied, as well as the bacteria most frequently associated with this process: Mycoplasma bovis, Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Trueperella pyogenes.

The main conclusions of the study are that, in both beef and dairy cattle, the four viruses involved in BRD (IBR, BVD, RSV, and Pi3) are present throughout the Spanish geography. In the case of dairy cattle, this is true even in areas with official IBR control. Additionally, the intra-herd seroprevalence of all of them is high in both sectors, and extremely high in the case of feedlot calves (exceeding 90% for Pi3).

This information is very useful as it reaffirms that it is essential to consider all the pathogens involved in BRD – with more than four being implicated – and to protect and prevent the cattle comprehensively against those that most frequently occur on the farms. This also allows for responsible use of antibiotics, as this is only possible based on proper biosecurity, good management, a specific knowledge of the prevalence map, and a high health status on the farm, through a good vaccination and health program consistent with the epidemiology of the farm, the region, and the origin of the animals to ensure success.

ABOUT ZOETIS

Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Built on 60 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets veterinary medicines and vaccines complemented by diagnostic products and supported by a wide range of services. In 2017, the company generated annual revenues of more than USD 5.307 billion. With nearly 9,000 employees globally, its products serve veterinarians, farmers, producers, and all those who raise and care for livestock and companion animals in more than 100 countries. More information at