Effects of Feedlot Disease on Economics, Production and Carcass Value

Abstract

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) remains as the most serious infectious disease problem in stocker and feedyard operations. The 1991 economic impact has been estimated to be $624 million.⁹ Major advances have been made in respiratory vaccines, pharmaceuticals and management systems, however, the problem remains. It seems likely that a major obstacle to reducing respiratory disease is the reluctance of many segments of the beef industry to adopt technology and practice management systems known to reduce disease incidence.