Producers Warned of Three-Day Sickness Threat
- Upper Hunter producers are being warned about the potential impact of three-day sickness in cattle and buffalo this season.
- Three-day sickness, scientifically known as Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF), is a mosquito-borne disease affecting cattle and buffalo.
- There are also suspected cases reported around Hannam Vale, Lansdowne, Taree, Oxley, Mitchells Islands, and Gloucester.
Upper Hunter Producers Warned of Three-Day sickness Threat
Table of Contents
- Upper Hunter Producers Warned of Three-Day sickness Threat
- Bovine Ephemeral Fever (Three-day Sickness) in Cattle: A complete Q&A guide for Upper Hunter Producers
- What is Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF) or Three-day Sickness?
- How does BEF affect cattle production and the economy?
- Where have cases of BEF been confirmed or suspected in the Upper Hunter region?
- How does BEF spread, and when is it likely to persist?
- What are the key symptoms of BEF in cattle?
- What should I do if I suspect my cattle have BEF?
- What management strategies are recommended for cattle affected by BEF?
- What is the expected recovery time for cattle that contract BEF?
- How does BEF impact pregnant cows and bulls?
- do cattle develop immunity to BEF?
- which cattle are most vulnerable to BEF?
- What are the considerations for vaccinating cattle against BEF?
- Where can I find more information and support?
- Key Differences Between Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Cattle
Posted: 2025-03-12
Upper Hunter producers are being warned about the potential impact of three-day sickness in cattle and buffalo this season. Cases of this disease have already been confirmed in the Manning Valley, prompting increased vigilance among farmers.
Understanding Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF)
Three-day sickness, scientifically known as Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF), is a mosquito-borne disease affecting cattle and buffalo. The disease can lead to meaningful economic losses due to:
- A drop in milk production for lactating cows
- Abortion in heavily pregnant cows
- Temporary infertility in bulls
Confirmed and Suspected Cases
BEF has been confirmed in cattle near Wingham. There are also suspected cases reported around Hannam Vale, Lansdowne, Taree, Oxley, Mitchells Islands, and Gloucester. The spread of the disease is closely monitored.
Spread and Persistence
As BEF is a virus spread by mosquitos, it is expected to move south-westerly throughout the wider Hunter region in the coming days and weeks. The virus will likely persist until the onset of cooler weather and frost, which reduces mosquito activity.
Symptoms to Watch For
Hunter Local Land Service advises producers to be on the lookout for the following symptoms in their livestock:
- Fevers over 41 degrees celsius
- Lameness
- Lethargy
- Drooling
- A dull appearance
These symptoms are crucial indicators of potential BEF infection.
Expert Advice and Management
According to Hunter Local Land Services,”The virus causes a high fever and pain in the muscles and joints,so affected cattle are frequently enough observed by themselves,off their feed,seeking shade and water.” This observation highlights the importance of closely monitoring cattle behavior for early detection.
The agency also notes, “On occasion BEF can cause pregnant cows to abort and bulls may become infertile for up to six months.” this underscores the potential long-term reproductive impacts of the disease.
For managing affected animals, Hunter Local Land Services recommends the following:
- In most cases, young, light cattle show mild symptoms for one to three days.
- Heavier cattle such as bulls and cows may need some extra care.
- If cattle are down for an extended period, seek veterinary advice.
- Medication sourced from yoru private veterinarian can reduce fever and inflammation, aiding in recovery.
- If animals are down, protect them from the hot sun, provide water and hay.
- If unable to stand for a day or two, lifting or rolling cattle twice daily becomes crucial to prevent secondary complications.
Immunity and Vulnerability
Cattle that have previously been exposed to BEF will have developed immunity to the disease. Calves under six months of age are rarely affected, suggesting some level of maternal immunity.
Local Land Services stated, “Given that 2024 was a significant year for BEF along the east coast we are hoping that many (but not all) of our stock will have some immunity, and we predict that the most vulnerable animals will be those born after April 2024, or stock introduced to the area since April 2024.” This highlights the importance of considering the history and origin of livestock when assessing risk.
Vaccination Considerations
The decision to vaccinate stock against Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF) virus frequently enough comes down to a consideration of both animal welfare and potential production losses from the fever and lameness, and the resulting condition, pregnancy and lactation losses. occasional cattle deaths either due to primary BEF infection or secondary effects
Bovine Ephemeral Fever (Three-day Sickness) in Cattle: A complete Q&A guide for Upper Hunter Producers
Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF),commonly known as three-Day Sickness,poses a notable threat to cattle and buffalo producers in the Upper Hunter region.With confirmed and suspected cases on the rise, understanding the disease, its symptoms, and management strategies is crucial. This Q&A guide provides essential information to help producers protect their livestock and minimize economic losses.
What is Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF) or Three-day Sickness?
Bovine ephemeral Fever (BEF), or Three-Day Sickness, is a viral disease affecting cattle and buffalo. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and characterized by a short-lived fever, lameness, and other symptoms.
How does BEF affect cattle production and the economy?
BEF can cause significant economic losses due to:
Reduced Milk Production: Lactating cows experience a drop in milk yield.
Abortions: Heavily pregnant cows may abort.
Infertility: Bulls can suffer temporary infertility.
Treatment Costs: Medication and veterinary service costs can impact a farmer’s bottom line.
Weight loss: Cattle who are affected may experience weight loss that can impact meat prodiction
Where have cases of BEF been confirmed or suspected in the Upper Hunter region?
Confirmed cases of BEF have been reported near Wingham.Suspected cases have also been reported in areas around Hannam Vale, lansdowne, Taree, Oxley, Mitchells Islands, and Gloucester.
How does BEF spread, and when is it likely to persist?
BEF is spread by mosquitoes. The disease is expected to move south-westerly throughout the Hunter region. It will likely persist until cooler weather and frost reduce mosquito activity.
What are the key symptoms of BEF in cattle?
Producers should watch for these symptoms in their livestock:
Fevers over 41 degrees Celsius
Lameness
Lethargy
Drooling
A dull appearance
What should I do if I suspect my cattle have BEF?
Closely monitor cattle behavior. Affected cattle may isolate themselves, go off their feed, and seek shade and water, If symptoms continue or worsen, seek veterinary advice immediately.
What management strategies are recommended for cattle affected by BEF?
Hunter Local Land Services recommends the following for managing affected animals:
Mild Cases: Young, light cattle often show mild symptoms for one to three days.
Extra Care: Heavier cattle, such as bulls and cows, may need additional care.
Veterinary Advice: Seek veterinary advice if cattle are down for an extended period.
Medication: Medication from a veterinarian can reduce fever and inflammation.
Comfort: Provide shade, water, and hay to animals that are down.
Turning: If animals cannot stand, lift or roll them twice daily to prevent secondary complications.
What is the expected recovery time for cattle that contract BEF?
In most cases, young, light cattle show mild symptoms for one to three days. Some cattle may be infertile for six months after contracting BEF.
How does BEF impact pregnant cows and bulls?
BEF can cause pregnant cows to abort. Bulls may become infertile for up to six months.
do cattle develop immunity to BEF?
Yes,cattle previously exposed to BEF develop immunity. Calves under six months old are rarely affected, suggesting maternal immunity.
which cattle are most vulnerable to BEF?
The most vulnerable animals are those born after April 2024 or stock introduced to the area since April 2024.
What are the considerations for vaccinating cattle against BEF?
the decision to vaccinate depends on weighing animal welfare concerns, potential production losses (fever, lameness, pregnancy, and lactation losses), and the risk of cattle deaths due to primary BEF infection or secondary effects.Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your herd.
Where can I find more information and support?
Consult your local veterinarian or Hunter Local Land Services for expert advice and support. Other resources include the NSW Department of Primary Industries and relevant agricultural organizations.
Key Differences Between Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Cattle
| Feature | Vaccinated Cattle | Unvaccinated Cattle |
| —————- | —————————————————————————— | ————————————————————————————- |
| Immunity | Higher likelihood of protection against BEF | No artificial protection, reliant on natural immunity or previous exposure |
| Risk Reduction | Reduced risk of severe symptoms, production losses, and complications | higher risk of developing severe symptoms, production losses, and potential complications |
| Cost | Initial cost of vaccination and potential booster shots | No initial cost, but potential for higher costs associated with treating the disease |
| Considerations| Vaccination schedule, vaccine efficacy, herd health, and risk assessment | Monitoring for early signs of infection, implementing supportive care measures |