Beef injection alert

In the lead-up to World Veterinary Day, Southern Downs livestock producers are being reminded to keep their annual vaccination programs up-to-date to maximise the health of their animals and business.
Vaccination is arguably one of the greatest scientific achievements of the modern era, and is the theme for this year’s World Veterinary Day, which is celebrated on Saturday, 27 April.
According to CEO of the Animal Health Alliance, Dr Peter Holdsworth, this is a timely reminder for producers to review their disease prevention plans and get their annual vaccination programs up-to-date.
“Annual vaccination is the key to stopping the spread and potentially devastating impact of disease on a herd or flock,” said Dr Holdsworth.
“For cattle, an annual booster is necessary to provide protective immunity for the next 12-month period. It is important not to miss this dose in steers and heifers as they may fall out of ‘normal’ vaccination timing for a producer,” Dr Holdsworth said.
Some cattle producers will have calves on the ground now, so vaccinations should be given at six weeks and again at 12 weeks to stimulate their antibody production.
A pre-calving booster is given to protect the unborn calf, and a pre-joining booster is given to protect the cow from infection during pregnancy.
For cattle producers, vaccinations protect against deadly clostridial diseases such as pulpy kidney, blackleg and tetanus.
Vaccines also safeguard against leptospirosis, pestivirus, vibriosis, and three-day sickness (or bovine ephemeral fever).
Livestock veterinarians can provide guidance and advice so that cattle producers can get maximum effectiveness from vaccines.
Producers should keep an eye on storage and handling as well as the age and health of the animal at the time of vaccination.
“There is no question that vaccinating is the most cost-effective way to prevent disease. Prevention is one of the best investments producers can make in the health and productivity of their animals,” Dr Holdsworth said.