IBR

What is Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)?

IBR is caused by a bovine Herpes virus. It is a highly contagious disease that is associated with abortion and respiratory signs. Transmission of IBR can be via nasal/oral secretions or from bull semen.  Once an animal becomes infected, it remains infected for life despite producing what appears to be a successful immune response. These animals can continue to shed the virus throughout their life, especially during periods of stress.

Symptoms:

• Abortion
• Airway inflammation and pneumonia
• Milk yield loss
• Coughing
• Inflamed eyes

Prevention and management of IBR can involve:

• Vaccination (please consult your farm vet)
• Biosecurity measures such as ensuring boundaries with neighbouring farms are secure
• Only purchase cattle from IBR-free herds

What testing options are available?

Through our labs, we can offer the following testing options:

• Bulk milk antibody ELISA (for dairy herds)
• Individual cow milk antibody ELISA
• GE antibody ELISA (to differentiate between infection and vaccination)

N.B. Some multivalent pneumonia vaccines can contain IBR viral components so be aware of this when using marker vaccines for IBR. As a result, the most suitable test for your herd will depend upon your herd’s vaccination status. Please consult your vet for advice.

For detailed information on our IBR Testing Services, please visit the NML website or contact Customer Services.

NML IBR Testing Services