While pinkeye is nothing new to cattle producers, cases generally peak during summer and into fall. The bacterium Moraxella bovis is typically the cause of the infection. Still, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System veterinarian says there are other viruses and bacteria that researchers are learning relate to the disease. Pinkeye can first be detected by the watery eyes on an animal, slowly progressing into conjunctivitis, where the cattle will display a sensitivity to light.
The Alabama veterinarian, Soren Rodning, says pinkeye peaks in summer due to flies. Producers who have fly problems will likely see pinkeye problems. Pinkeye prevention can be done through a vaccine, mainly used to protect against Moraxella bovis. Alternatively, an autogenous vaccine, Rodning says, can be custom-made to target multiple organisms associated with pinkeye.
Featured
-
How Does a Government Shutdown Impact Agriculture?September 26, 2023
-
USDA Approves $70 Million for Conservation Efforts Among Underserved ProducersSeptember 25, 2023
-
Drought Conditions, Water Levels May Impact Remainder of 2023September 25, 2023
-
Whole-Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) Pilot Plan of Insurance and Micro Farm Program Crop Insurance ChangesSeptember 22, 2023
-
Farm Bill Takes Back Seat To Looming Federal DebatesSeptember 26, 2023