Tufts Veterinary Field Service can customize vaccination protocols for beef or dairy cattle to prevent common infectious diseases including Blackleg, Rabies and pneumonia.
Rabies is fatal virus that can infect the brain of any mammal, including cattle and humans. The virus is spread when a bite or scratches an uninfected animal. Rabies is endemic in New England, meaning it is regularly found in animals throughout the region. Protection is requiring an annual vaccine administered by a veterinarian. The vaccine can be given to cattle over 12 weeks of age. Rabies vaccination is required for cattle being exhibited at fairs or shows but is not required by state regulations in New England.
Blackleg is an acute, highly fatal disease of cattle and sheep caused by Clostridium bacteria. The first signs observed in a cow affected by Blackleg are typically lameness, loss-of-appetite, rapid breathing, depression, and a high fever. Characteristic swellings may develop in the hip, shoulder, chest, back or neck. The bacteria which cause Blackleg may be harbored in acidic soils like those found in New England and so cattle pastured in New England are frequently exposed to these bacteria.
Pneumonia is defined as inflammation of the lungs and is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. We routinely recommend that cattle be vaccinated against the common viral pneumonic pathogens including IBR, BVD, PI-3, and BRSV. Vaccines are also available against some of the common bacterial pneumonic pathogens such as Pasteurella and Mannheimia and use of these vaccines may be recommended in certain situations.
Bovine Vaccines