Better protection against calf scour
Better protection against calf scour
IMPROVED protection against calf scour is promised after the launch of a new vaccine, administered to the dam, from animal health company Merial.
The vaccine, Trivacton 6, contains six protective antigens against rotavirus, coronavirus and four strains of E coli, said Merial vet Andy Forbes. "Scour is the main cause of calf deaths in the first few weeks of life.
"E coli is one of the main villains, but it has been difficult to treat because no one drug or vaccine is able to hit all types. This vaccine stops bugs attaching to gut walls."
Young calves have a limited immune response, so direct vaccination does not work, said Mr Forbes. This vaccine is administered to the dam, so calves gain immunity to the scour-causing bugs from drinking colostrum
"Pregnant cows or heifers should be vaccinated one or two months before calving, then again 2-4 weeks before calving. A single booster dose is required in subsequent years."
Colostrum from vaccinated dams can be frozen and should ideally be fed to dairy calves for two weeks. Beef calves will gain immunity from natural suckling.
The vaccine costs about £6/dose, he added. *