Student Case Presentation
Multiple Acute Deaths in Yearling Dairy Heifers
| Date/Time: |
8/27/2026 2:15 PM
|
| Presenter: |
Cody Campbell |
| Veterinary School: |
VA |
Abstract:
A dairy heifer rearing operation in Virginia experienced an outbreak of an unknown disease that had a high mortality leading to the death of twelve animals during a six-week period. Initially, a heifer was euthanized that upon presentation was actively seizing with oral lesions and ocular opacities present. A second heifer in the group also had ocular lesions and an elevated rectal temperature. Blood samples from both animals were submitted for Bovine Viral Diarrhea PCR testing. While results were pending, several other heifers began exhibiting similar clinical signs and died. Necropsy was performed with additional BVDV testing. All BVDV testing was negative, thus IBR PCR was performed. After negative results, the state diagnostic lab performed PCR testing for Malignant Catarrhal Fever. Upon further history inquiry, it was determined this group of heifers were housed near a sheep production facility. After a diagnosis of Malignant Catarrhal Fever was made, the sheep were re-located and only one additional heifer exhibited clinical signs after the sheep were moved.
Malignant Catarrhal Fever is a disease caused by a group of herpes viruses. One of the most clinically important viruses in this group is endemic in sheep populations. Sheep are not clinically affected but can transmit this virus to cattle causing neurological signs, fever, mucosal erosions and sudden death. This disease is rare but is typically observed more frequently in the western US than the east coast. This case series was the first the diagnosticians involved had diagnosed in Virginia.
This case highlights excellent collaboration between private practitioners and state veterinary diagnosticians to reach a diagnosis for a disease that is not commonly diagnosed. Awareness of Malignant Catarrhal Fever is important to bovine practitioners because early diagnosis is imperative with this disease due to the acute onset mortality and lack of treatment options.
