Application of Sentinel Serology in a BVDV Eradication Program

Abstract

In 2007, the Michigan Upper Peninsula BVDV Eradication Program was launched. The purpose of this project is to eradicate bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from a geographic area and, in doing so, identify benefits derived from and obstacles encountered during the eradication program. An important goal of the project was to develop a feasible model that may be adopted by other parts of the US. Key components of the program include identification and removal of cattle persistently infected with BVDV, institution of a planned biosecurity program, and appropriate BVDV vaccination. Whole-herd testing to identify cattle persistently infected with BVDV is a major investment of both time and money for producers. Therefore, development of more efficient herd-testing strategies would be beneficial. Serological evaluation of small groups of young, non-vaccinated calves has been proposed as an alternative method for identifying herds with cattle persistently infected (PI) with BVDV. The objective of the study reported here was to evaluate the application of sentinel serology as an ongoing herd monitoring tool to detect entry of BVDV into a herd. The goal of sentinel testing is to provide an effective herd screening tool that can be used in follow-up surveillance in an eradication program.