Farmers urged to check for cryptosporidiosis
© Tim Scrivener Farmers have been urged to check their livestock for cryptosporidiosis and carry out routine testing and vaccination to keep the disease at bay.
It remains one of the most common diagnoses in cattle carcass submissions to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha), and can severely impact calf performance, leading to a potential £161 reduction in sale price a calf due to reduced weight gain in the first six months.
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In the first quarter of 2024, Apha data showed it to be the fourth most commonly diagnosed disease, and the second most frequent diagnosis over the past 10 years.
Infection and clinical signs
Calves infected, from five days to two weeks of age, can show symptoms ranging from colic, reduced weight gain and feed intake, through to watery scour and dehydration.
Infection occurs when calves ingest the micro-organism cryptosporidium parvum – a type of parasitic protozoan.
The parasite produces vast numbers of encysted eggs (oocysts), which are shed in the faeces of infected animals.
Managing the disease
Once present, the disease can be nearly impossible to eradicate, said vet Rob Drysdale from Bovine Health Solutions.
To proactively manage the disease, which can often be missed and may be underdiagnosed, he recommended farmers carry out routine on-farm testing, vaccinate livestock and maintain hygiene.
“Keeping calves clean, ensuring quality colostrum intake, and maintaining hygiene at calving and in housing are key,” said Mr Drysdale.
It is also advised that farmers use disinfectants effective against C parvum, upkeep proper colostrum management with clean equipment, and ensure calf pens are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Pregnant heifers may also be vaccinated to provide increased protection through their colostrum.
“By vaccinating dams, farmers improve calf health, enhancing lifetime performance, earlier age to first calving, and increased milk production,” said Mr Drysdale.
He also reminded farmers of the risks to humans from C parvum, with the potential for the zoonotic parasite to cause stomach problems.