By TVMDL, The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory protects animal and human health through diagnostics. An agency of the Texas A&M University System, TVMDL comprises two full-service laboratories, in College Station and Amarillo, and two poultry laboratories, in Center and Gonzales
Bovine Viral Diarrhea virus (BVDV) is widespread in the cattle population and capable of causing serious clinical disease in cattle. A wide range of disease manifestations may be observed and outcome of infection depends on numerous host factors, such as immune status of the cow, pregnancy status and gestation of the fetus, and/ or concurrent infections, to name a few.
Within the U.S. cattle population, there are three major subtypes, BVDV 1a, BVDV 1b and BVDV 2; the BVDV 1b subtype being the most predominant. The disease is primarily maintained and spread by persistently infected individuals; therefore, the majority of control programs are aimed at identification of these individuals.
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers a variety of testing options to assist with the diagnosis and management of BVDV.
Often, there are no outward signs that the animal is persistently infected with BVDV and many diseases present as co-infections with BVDV as the root cause:
- Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (IBR)
- Parainfluenza-3
- Bovine Respiratory Coronavirus
- Pasturella
- Mycoplasma
- Histophilus
Working with your veterinarian, you can determine the appropriate test for your animal based on its symptoms. Once it is determined that cattle are infected with BVDV, it is best to consult a veterinarian for recommended disease management options.
For questions regarding diagnostic testing for BVDV, contact TVMDL.
Download a printer-friendly version of this publication: TVMDL BVD Test Selection Guide
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