Be on the lookout for Three Day Sickness
23 Jan 2024
Three-day sickness is an insect-transmitted virus of cattle that causes a high fever and pain in the muscles and joints. Recent wet weather has created ideal conditions for an increase of mosquitoes with the potential to spread the virus.
Symptoms include a fever, lameness, recumbency or unwillingness to stand, lethargy, weight loss, increased drooling and stringy nasal discharge. Heavier animals such as bulls and pregnant cows tend to be more severely impacted. The disease can be diagnosed based on clinical signs and confirmed with a blood test.
Megan Davies, District Veterinarian with North West Local Land Services said “While symptoms only last a few days, it is important to manage and treat infected cattle appropriately through supportive care and anti-inflammatory medication administered in consultation with your local veterinarian.”
“We are encouraging producers to monitor their cattle as the season progresses and seek veterinary advice if needed.”
Affected cattle should be provided with shade, water and feed and turned or lifted twice daily to help prevent secondary complications. A paddock free of steep hills or gullies is preferable.
Recently recovered cattle should not be sent to the abattoirs for several weeks to give the body a chance to heal and avoid the possibility of downgrades from any residual muscle damage. Where treatments have been given, any withholding periods must be observed.
Consideration of vaccination is encouraged, especially for stock introduced from outside the region, homebred stock under two years of age, and high-value animals. While the vaccine may not provide immediate protection in areas already affected, the early stage of the season offers an opportunity for timely vaccination. The vaccine requires two initial doses 2-4 weeks apart for unvaccinated animals, followed by a booster every 12 months.
For further advice contact your nearest Local Land Services District Veterinarian by calling 1300 795 299 or private veterinary practitioner.