Vaccines play a vital role in animal health, and achieving the best results requires combining them with good management practices. As producers develop a protocol, it is key to work with their veterinarian.
“There are several factors to consider when establishing an appropriate vaccination protocol for your operation,” says Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM and Nebraska Extension beef educator. “Plans are not one size fits all. Understanding the principles of vaccination may be helpful when choosing what product to use, when to use them and how to ensure the animals get the most benefit.”
She explains the first step is to establish a veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR) with a trusted veterinarian.
“A valid VCPR states the operation’s goals and explains how a veterinarian can help reach those goals,” she says. “This contract is essential for outlining what animal health products such as vaccinations and antibiotics fit an operation best. It should be renewed on an annual basis.”
A vaccine is used to reduce the risk of disease. Research trials are conducted to assess how well the product will affect the immune system of the animal, measuring what protection is provided from disease challenges.
“Vaccines do not completely prevent disease,” Waechter-Mead says. “Most products will shorten the duration and severity of disease in the majority of animals, but not all. Each immune system reacts differently, even within the same herd. Animals that are stressed or sick may have a depressed immune response when compared to a healthy animal. Vaccines work best when given to healthy animals.”
Vaccines take time to work
Giving an injection today does not equal 100% protection tomorrow.
“Once an animal receives the product, it may take up to one month for the immune system to create antibodies, which will be activated during the next disease challenge,” Waechter-Mead explains. “Therefore, it is best to anticipate when and what diseases are a threat and administer a vaccine protocol one month prior.”
For example, if preweaning summer pneumonia has been a concern, adding a vaccine that targets respiratory pathogens prior to grass turn-out might be beneficial. Some vaccines need a second booster to help amplify and activate the antibody production.
“Reading the product label and discussing protocols with your veterinarian will help to ensure the product is used correctly,” she says.
Chute side reminders
Erika Lundy-Woolfolk, Iowa State University beef specialist, shares these chute-side reminders as you plan for spring processing.
- Maintain equipment
• Clean syringes before and after each processing day.
“Be sure to use boiling water rather than a disinfectant solution,” Lund-Woolfolk explains. “Disinfectant residue can impact the efficacy of future products in that syringe.”
• Use the right needle.
Depending on if cows, calves or bulls are being processed, consider the needle gauge and length that is the most appropriate.
• Change needles often.
Needles should, at minimum, be changed every time a syringe is reloaded and when a needle is bent. To prevent disease transfer, changing every 10 head or so has value. Plus, it keeps the needle sharp. - Read the product label
• Confirm the product selected is for control of the pathogens you are concerned about.
• Identify the proper dosage and route of administration.
• Most vaccines require two doses and many have a withdrawal time, which should be in the vaccination records. - Handle vaccines appropriately
• Only mix enough modified live vaccine for 30-minute intervals.
• Check expiration dates and ensure the product was stored properly. Excess heat, sun, or frost exposure can all damage vaccines.
• Utilize a cooler for both vaccines and to store syringes to avoid sudden temperature changes of the vaccine which can diminish efficacy. - Injection sites
• Administer in the neck with the appropriate route of administration (subcutaneous, intramuscular, etc.)
• Target a 4" space between injection sites. For calves, this is difficult and both sides of the neck might need to be used.
• Be aware of wet or muddy hair coats and dull needles. These will increase the likelihood of injection site lesions. - Keep records
Include animal identification, products administered with serial and lot numbers and withdrawal time, and any other relevant notes.
“The immune response to all vaccines can be influenced by a variety of factors,” she summarizes. “Utilize low-stress handling and practices that align with BQA values to get the full value of the health investment spring shots entail.”
Waechter-Mead reminds producers the most effective vaccination plans incorporate other elements to ensure protection against disease. These include proper nutrition, managing environmental challenges and establishing a robust biosecurity plan for introducing new animals.
“When considering these factors, a custom herd health protocol can be established that benefits your operation,” she says.
For more more spring processing tips, listen to this “BeefWatch” podcast:
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