Bovine leukemia virus in Michigan beef bulls

Authors

  • J. Zalucha Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • D. L. Grooms Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • R. Erskine Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • B. Norby Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • P. Coussens Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • P. Bartlett Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20134212

Keywords:

bovine leukemia virus, asymptomatic, malignant lymphosarcoma, economic impact, bull fertility, transmission

Abstract

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a contagious retrovirus of cattle. Little is known about the prevalence, risk factors, or potential health impacts of BLV in beef cattle. Most cattle remain asymptomatic, but 30 to 40% will develop persistent leukocytosis. Fewer than 5% of infected cattle develop malignant lymphosarcoma, which in the US, is the most common neoplastic disease of cattle discovered at slaughter. Recent studies have suggested that BLV prevalence has increased dramatically, and has a previously unappreciated economic impact on the cattle industry. The objectives of this study were to determine the crude and age-specific prevalence of BLV among beef bulls in Michigan, assess the possible impact of BLV infection on bull fertility, and identify the major risk factors for BLV transmission among beef bulls.

Cover image of the 46th Conference Proceedings: An image of cattle standing in a field during th day. They are looking rather indignantly at the camera. Yellow background.

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Published

2013-09-19

Issue

2013

Section

Posters