Symptoms to Watch For
Dairy farmers are urged to monitor their cattle daily for signs of BEF, which include:
• Lethargy and a dull appearance
• Drooling and difficulty swallowing
• Lameness and stiffness
• High fever and muscle pain, causing cattle to separate from the herd, go off their feed, and seek shade and water.
In some cases, the virus can cause pregnant cows to abort, and bulls may experience temporary infertility for up to six months.
Managing Three Day Sickness in Dairy Herds
Young, lighter cattle usually show mild symptoms lasting 1-3 days, while heavier cattle, including bulls and cows, may require additional care. If cattle remain down for an extended period, veterinary assistance should be sought. Anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing medications, available through your private veterinarian, can aid in recovery.
Steps to Support Affected Cattle:
• Provide shade, water, and hay.
• If cattle are unable to stand, roll or lift them twice daily to prevent complications.
• Position down cattle so that their head is uphill of their abdomen, as ruminants can die quickly if they end up lying with their head downhill.
Farmers are also advised not to send recently recovered cattle to abattoirs for several weeks to allow muscle recovery and avoid potential downgrades. If medications have been administered, ensure withholding periods are observed.
Resources and Further Assistance
For additional information, dairy farmers can access resources from:
For veterinary advice, contact your LLS district veterinarian at 1300 795 299 or consult a private veterinary practitioner.
