07/03/2025
📢 Three Day Sickness (Bovine Ephemeral Fever or BEF) has been confirmed in cattle near Wingham, with suspect cases around Hannam Vale, Lansdowne, Taree, Oxley and Mitchells Islands and Gloucester. As the disease is spread via mosquitos it is expected to spread throughout the Hunter region in the coming days/weeks.
🔸 Monitor cattle daily for lethargy, dull appearance, drooling or lameness.
🔸If cattle are down, protect them from the hot sun, provide water and hay.
🔸If they are unable to stand after a day or two, lifting or rolling cattle becomes important.
🔸 In most cases young, light cattle show mild symptoms for 1-3 days, but heavier cattle such as bulls and cows may need some extra care.
🔸 If cattle are down for an extended period please seek veterinary advice. Medication sourced from your private veterinarian can reduce fever and inflammation aiding in recovery.
The Hunter and Midcoast region experienced a widespread outbreak in early 2024 and prior to that in early 2022. Consequently, many (but not all) cattle who were here during those outbreaks will be immune, with cases this year expected to be mainly in cattle born since April 2024 (in which case the clinical presentation may be milder due to their smaller size) or in cattle introduced from other areas since April 2024.
More information on our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3U4LKXE
