Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex (BRDC)

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Key Points

Bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) is a multifactorial respiratory syndrome of cattle, caused by a combination of viral infection, bacterial infection and environmental or management factors
Most often occurs in 6-10 month old calves after a period of stress (e.g. weaning, transportation)
Clinical signs include pyrexia, depression, ocular / nasal discharge and poor growth rates
Diagnosis in practice is primarily based on clinical presentation and history of a recent stressful event
Antibiotics, NSAIDs and supportive care are the mainstays of treatment
Prevention should address the whole herd and include vaccination, stress reduction and good ventilation
One of the most economically significant diseases in beef units as, even if cattle recover, they can have permanent lung damage and reduced lifetime productivity

Differential Diagnoses

Bovine dictyocaulosis (D. vivparus)
Aspiration pneumonia

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →