Rotavirus infections in calves.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Neonatal Calf Health
• Gastrointestinal Diseases

Background:

• Rotaviruses are a primary cause of neonatal enteritis and diarrhea in calves.
• Calf susceptibility increases as maternal antibodies wane, with peak shedding around the first week of life.
• The virus damages small intestinal enterocytes, leading to villous atrophy and malabsorption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and control of rotavirus infections in calves.
• To discuss current and emerging strategies for preventing and managing rotavirus-induced diarrhea in neonatal calves.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis relies on detecting rotavirus or its antigens in feces using methods like electron microscopy, ELISA, and IEOP.
• Pathogenesis involves viral infection and destruction of mature villous enterocytes, leading to villous atrophy.
• Control measures include improved farm management to reduce exposure and enhancing calf resistance via immune colostrum or vaccination.

Main Results:

• Rotavirus infections are characterized by high morbidity but mild to moderate clinical severity, with many subclinical cases.
• Environmental contamination with rotavirus is heavy and persistent due to its resistance to inactivation.
• Vaccination of dams with inactivated, adjuvanted vaccines shows promise but requires further research.

Conclusions:

• Rotavirus remains a significant challenge in calf health, necessitating integrated control approaches.
• Management strategies and immune enhancement are key to reducing disease impact.
• Further development of effective vaccination protocols is crucial for rotavirus prevention in calves.