BVDV

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVDV) is a viral disease affecting both beef and dairy cattle of all ages. BVD is the top disease concern of cattle producers and veterinarians, not only due to the disease issues, but also due to its large economic influence. It is estimated that up to 80 percent of all U.S. cattle have been or are infected with the virus. The BVD virus not only causes diarrhea as its name implies, but it also has other serious influences. The disease can cause reproductive issues such as infertility and abortions. BVD is also immunosuppressive, making cattle more vulnerable to other viruses and bacteria, and may play a key role in Bovine Respiratory Disease complex (BRD). Possibly the greatest concern involving BVD is the generation of Persistently Infected (PI) animals. Current conventional vaccines, both killed and modified live, each have their own drawbacks, and none of them cover all 3 types of the BVD virus; most vaccines provide protection for BVD types 1a and 2, but not BVD type 1b.