The medicine and epidemiology of bovine respiratory disease in feedlots

Aust Vet J. 2003 Aug;81(8):480-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2003.tb13367.x.

Abstract

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) results from a complex, multifactorial interaction of stressors, animal susceptibility, and respiratory pathogens. The infectious agents associated with BRD are ubiquitous among cattle populations. Typically, one or a combination of stressors are necessary to initiate BRD. Prevention of BRD should, therefore, address management procedures to minimise stressors. Administration of vaccines against BRD agents may help reduce the incidence of BRD but is unlikely to eliminate the condition. The effectiveness of antimicrobials in the treatment of BRD depends primarily on early recognition and treatment. The use of antioxidant vitamins, minerals or other agents in the prevention and treatment of BRD warrants further research.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cattle
  • Cattle Diseases / drug therapy
  • Cattle Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Cattle Diseases / prevention & control
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / drug therapy
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / epidemiology
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / prevention & control
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / veterinary*
  • Risk Factors
  • Vaccination / veterinary

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antiviral Agents