March 26, 2024

 

US researcher develops new vaccine to combat bovine respiratory disease

A Louisiana State University (LSU) professor has developed a novel vaccine to combat bovine respiratory disease (BRD), the primary cause of fatalities in cattle, FarmWeekNow reported.

 

BRD claimed the lives of up to 8 million calves annually, resulting in staggering losses exceeding US$1 billion for the US cattle industry.

 

LSU's professor of veterinary medicine, Shafiqul Chowdhury, revealed that the newly developed vaccine offers superior safety compared to existing alternatives.

 

Over a decade of painstaking research led Chowdhury to genetically modify the bovine herpes virus type 1 (BHV-1), incorporating protective proteins from other respiratory viruses to effectively prevent BRD. The innovative vaccine has been patented, and a commercial manufacturing agreement is in place to mass-produce it.

 

According to Matthew Scott, an assistant professor specialising in microbial ecology and infectious diseases at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, approximately 20% of beef cattle require clinical treatment for BRD during their lifetimes. BRD is complex, influenced by factors such as genetics, immune system suppression, stress, climate variations, and pathogen exposure.

 

Chowdhury's vaccine promises increased safety and reduced calf mortality rates compared to current live vaccine formulations. Unlike existing vaccines, which lack differentiation from virulent field viruses, Chowdhury's vaccine ensures no circulation of the vaccine virus.

 

Moreover, the new vaccine, derived from genetically modified BHV-1, offers cost-effectiveness by utilising a single virus grown efficiently in cell culture, eliminating the need for separate growth and mixing of individual viruses.

 

Crucially, Chowdhury's vaccine poses no risk of abortion, a potential side effect associated with current commercial vaccine cocktails.

 

The vaccine's efficacy is anticipated to minimise clinical BRD symptoms, including fever, nasal and ocular discharge, coughing, and signs of depression. Scott said it is important to bolster calf immunity through timely vaccinations, deworming, and optimal nutrition.

 

Beyond vaccinations, preventive measures for BRD encompass proper ventilation, minimal pen movement, low-stress handling techniques, clean bedding, and consistent access to feed and water, aiming to safeguard cattle health and welfare.

 

-      FarmWeekNow