Bluetongue Virus Impacts Sheep and Cattle Fertility
The fertility of livestock is facing significant challenges this year due to the prevalence of the bluetongue virus. Both cattle and sheep herds are experiencing reduced fertility rates, necessitating repeated breeding attempts.
A Hidden Threat: The Impacts on Rams
A ram infected with bluetongue can be infertile for at least six weeks, even if vaccinated. Timing plays a critical role. Early infection this year may have allowed for rams to recover by the breeding season, meaning less impact on sheep pregnancies. However, sheep farmers will experience more prolonged breeding cycles this year.
As sheep doctor and director of the Dutch [{
Sheep and Goat Breeders Organization, Reinard Everts{], notes, “Not
all infected rams show symptoms, and they can remain fertile for some period.
These asymptomatic cases can pose a significant threat.
Some breeders may unknowingly use an infected ram, leading to unexpected breeding setbacks several weeks later.”
Long-Term Impacts and Breeding Challenges
Lambing season could be extended next year as a result. Lambs
receive protection for two to three months via colostrum, but
vaccination is essential. The optimal timing for vaccinations is a
key decision for farmers. Vaccinating the entire herd might not always be practical, and waiting for lambs to be older
presents the risk of infection before vaccination.
Working with veterinarians for timed insemination schedules will be vital.
The Impact on Cows: A Veterinarian’s Perspective
Cattle face similar issues. Veterinarian Bauke van der Valk of
CRV reports increased inseminations and repeat
inseminations, likely due to specific signs for breeding and
inseminations. A viral infection may not always be visible. In fact,
symptoms can manifest later in gestation when an apparently
pregnant cow either has a loss, sometimes
resulting in a delay at calving.
Farmers must be prepared for these additional. This might involve postponement due to longer
recovery times. Breeding programs are experiencing the impact
of bluetongue. A veterinarian
Dr. Valk adds
’There’s been a noticeable責
increase in the number of cows requiring a second insemination.
Incidence of the virus is significant enough
that some farmers might encounter antibiotics. While cows may seem
pregnant, complications can arise.
Dr. Valk advises dairy farmers to perform a second pregnancy check
before drying off, using scanning or milk samples. Timely drying
is crucial to prevent premature births.
What are some ways bluetongue virus can impact fertility in livestock?
## Bluetongue Threatens Livestock Fertility
**[Intro music]**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re tackling a serious issue impacting farmers across the country: the bluetongue virus and its effect on livestock fertility. Joining us to shed some light on this complex situation is Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading veterinarian specializing in livestock health. Dr. Jones, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Jones:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is the bluetongue virus, and how does it affect fertility in sheep and cattle?
**Dr. Jones:** Bluetongue is a viral disease spread primarily by biting midges. While it can cause various symptoms in animals, including fever, lameness, and even death, a major concern for farmers is its impact on reproduction. The virus can cause early embryonic deaths, abortions, and even temporary infertility in both bulls and rams, according to research published in PubMed [[1](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8001344/)].
**Host:** You mentioned temporary infertility. How long are we talking about?
**Dr. Jones:** In rams, for instance, infertility can last for at least six weeks, even if they’ve been vaccinated. The timing of infection is crucial. Rams infected earlier in the year may have recovered by the breeding season, minimizing impact. But as we saw this year, the virus has been prevalent, leading to prolonged breeding cycles for many sheep farms.
**Host:** So, there’s a hidden threat here. Even rams that don’t show symptoms can be silently spreading the virus and impacting fertility?
**Dr. Jones:** Exactly.
As experts like Dr. Reinard Everts, director of the Dutch Sheep and Goat Breeders Organization, have highlighted, asymptomatic rams can still be fertile for a period, making it harder to detect and control the spread [[2](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8001344/)].
**Host:** This must be a huge concern for farmers. What steps can they take to protect their herds?
**Dr. Jones:** Vaccination is key. While it may not entirely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity of the disease and minimize its impact on fertility. Biosecurity measures like controlling midge populations around livestock can also help.
**Host:** Dr. Jones, thank you so much for sharing your expertise. This is crucial information for farmers battling this challenge.
**Dr. Jones:** You’re welcome. It’s important to stay informed and proactive in protecting our livestock.
**[Outro music]**
