HoBi-Like Pestivirus and Its Impact on Cattle Productivity

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Animal Health Economics

Background:

• HoBi-like pestivirus (HoboPV) emerged in a southern Italy cattle herd in 2011.
• Initial infections presented as respiratory disease, followed by abortion storms and apparent disappearance after culling persistently infected calves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the clinical features and economic impact of HoboPV in a cattle herd.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of an eradication program for HoboPV.

Main Methods:

• Clinical surveillance and diagnostic detection of HoboPV strains.
• Implementation of an eradication program targeting persistently infected animals.
• Monitoring of herd productivity before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• HoboPV re-emerged in 2014, causing reproductive failures and acute gastroenteritis, significantly decreasing productivity.
• A HoboPV strain closely related to the initial outbreak strain was identified.
• The eradication program led to a marked improvement in herd productive performances.

Conclusions:

• HoBi-like pestivirus poses a significant threat to cattle health and productivity.
• Targeted eradication of persistently infected animals is an effective strategy to control HoboPV outbreaks and restore herd productivity.