Vaccine labels all contain verbiage like, “. . . is indicated for vaccination of healthy cattle as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by . . .” For years veterinarians have recommended vaccination against respiratory viruses during initial processing of high-risk cattle on arrival to the feedlot or background operation.
New research indicates it may be better to delay vaccination of new calves unless the new arrivals have been preconditioned prior to shipment.
Source: BEEF, February 3, 2020. Link.
Vaccine efficacy hinges upon a robust immune response to the antigens contained in the vaccine, and the immune system requires several days to weeks to respond adequately. . .” – John Richeson, PhD
INSIGHTS: There are management challenges with delaying on-arrival vaccinations, including separate holding pens. However, to assertively address BRD for cattle not previously preconditioned, we must account for the limits of vaccines. New arrivals have considerable stress associated with transport, weaning and commingling, which introduces social stress and exposure to new pathogens. These physiological and psychological, make re-handling the cattle at a time more efficacious to animal health practical.