Bruce Addison and Austin Springer with Addison Biological Laboratories discuss pinkeye in terms of primary and co-factor infections. Their laboratory experiences are further explained by electron microscope photography showing how M. boviculi attaches to M. bovis. Although the company suggests further research, results suggest M. bovoculi does not attach well to the surface of the eye but may be attaching via tendrils to M. bovis which, in turn, attaches with pilli to the corneal surface. The result . . . stubborn pinkeye infections.
Source: Progressive Dairyman, June 2018, page 54. Link.
Good management practices, including good nutrition, fly control, pasture clipping and providing shade from ultraviolet light exposure, are important along with a vaccination program that includes both M. bovis and M. bovoculi vaccinations.
It should also be understood, vaccination with Moraxella sp. does not eliminate the organisms from the host animals. The vaccines are designed to protect against the expression of disease, not the carrier state of the host animals.
Also see: Heed new pinkeye management protocols, Animal Health Digest, April 24, 2018. Link. Articles from AHD sponsor Addison Biological Laboratories provide information about how we should now manage pinkeye. Starting with a historical perspective helps.
INSIGHTS: Veterinary teams and sales reps who work with dairies and cow-calf operations need to understand this information and communicate with producers about pinkeye vaccination results. For more information, contact AHD Sponsor, Addison Biological Laboratories. MAXI/GUARD® Pinkeye Bacterin. Link-1. Moraxella bovoculi Bacterin. Link-2.
Moraxella bovoculi Autogenous. Link-3.