Vibriosis can affect both beef and dairy cattle.  

If you breed cattle of any sort you need to know about this disease, final year veterinary student at Charles Sturt University Emma Lee and South East Local Land Services district veterinarian Helen Schaefer said. 

Vibriosis, or bovine genital campylobacteriosis, is a sexually transmitted disease of cattle that can cause poor conception rates, embryonic loss and abortion.

It is caused by the bacterium campylobacter fetus subspecies venerealis and can be transmitted between bulls and cows or heifers during mating.­

Cows infected with the vibrio bacteria generally do not appear outwardly “sick”.

Often the first thing that is seen is a higher than normal number of cows or heifers returning to oestrus, or “coming back on heat” following service.

With a restricted joining period in a beef herd, this means a higher percentage will be empty at pregnancy testing.

Abortion, particularly at five months or more gestation, may also be seen.

Vibriosis is a sneaky disease and bulls generally do not show any signs of the disease.

This means infected bulls can spread the disease to a large number of cows before it is suspected something may be wrong.

The disease can lead to a significant loss in productivity.

It has been estimated that the reproductive losses associated with vibriosis in beef and/or dairy herds can reduce your profit by anywhere from 35-65 per cent.

Vaccination is a simple and effective way to protect your herd.

All bulls should be vaccinated against the disease. 

All that is required is two initial doses four to six weeks apart, followed by an annual booster.

To obtain the vibrio vaccine contact your local veterinary hospital, which may offer single doses of the vaccine, or your local ag supply store.

Where tests show infection is present in the herd, your vet may recommend a more extensive vaccination program.

If you have any questions about vibriosis contact Dr Schaefer at South East Local Land Services on 0417 296 739 or 6491 7800.

The South East LLS apologised for the incorrect phone number that was published in last week’s edition of the Bega District News (13/11). 

Emma Lee, final year vet student, CSU

Helen Schaefer, district veterinarian, South East Local Land Services