Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF): The 3-Day Challenge for Dairy Farmers

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Introduction

Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF), also known as "Three-Day Sickness" or "Hadda" in local farming communities, is an acute febrile viral disease of cattle and water buffaloes. The disease is distinguished by its sudden onset and spontaneous recovery in 72 hours. However, despite its short duration, economic loss in terms of reduced milk production and temporary lameness is devastating for dairy farmers.



Etiology and Transmission


The virus:


Bovine Ephemeral Fever is caused by an Arthropod-borne Rhabdovirus, also known as Ephemerovirus.

Vector Transmission


The disease is not transmitted directly from animal to animal. The virus is transmitted by biting insects, mainly mosquitoes and Culicoides (midges).

Seasonality


The disease is highly seasonal, with peak incidence during the monsoon or post-rainy season when insect populations are at their peak.

Clinical Signs

Identifying the 3-Day Cycle


The clinical signs of Bovine Ephemeral Fever often follow a distinct pattern. They include:

Sudden Pyrexia


A sudden rise in body temperature, ranging from 104°F to 106°F.

Muscular Stifness


Muscle tremors, lameness in one or more limbs, and shivering. The animal appears "stiff" or reluctant to move.

Anorexia & Drop in Milk


Sudden and drastic drop in milk production. Milk production may not return to normal for weeks.

Ocular & Nasal Discharge


Serous nasal discharge, with drooling or salivation.

​Recumbency: 

Severe cases, particularly in cows or bulls with high production, may result in the animal going down or becoming recumbent.

​Pathogenesis & Diagnosis

​The virus causes widespread inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels, which leads to fluid accumulation in the joints and lungs. Diagnosis of the disease is normally done on the basis of clinical signs coupled with the seasonality of the disease. PCR or Virus Neutralization Tests can also be used to diagnose the disease.

​Management and Treatment

​The fact that BEF is a viral disease means that there is no specific treatment for the disease. The main form of treatment is supportive in nature:

​Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):

 These drugs, such as Flunixin Meglumine or Meloxicam, are highly effective in treating BEF.

​Calcium Therapy: 

Many animals with BEF experience hypocalcemia, which can be treated by giving calcium gluconate to the animal, thus enabling them to stand up.

​Hydration: 

The animal should be provided with water, especially if it is unable to stand.
​Prevention Strategies
​To prevent your animals from contracting BEF, you can use the following measures:

​Vector Control: 

Use an insecticidal spray to kill all the mosquitoes around your farm, thus preventing them from breeding.

​Vaccination: 

The best way to prevent BEF is to get your animals vaccinated before the rainy season.
​Nursing: Provide your animals with soft bedding and water to enable them to move about, thus preventing them from injuring themselves.

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