Winter Dysentery (Bovine Coronavirus)

GastrointestinalBovineNew

Key Points

Winter dysentery is a highly contagious cause of diarrhoea in adult cattle, associated with bovine coronavirus (BCoV)
Mainly seen in winter when cattle are housed
Outbreaks typically have a high morbidity but low mortality
Key clinical signs are acute-onset, profuse diarrhoea and a sharp, temporary drop in milk yield
Diagnosis is often presumptive, but can be confirmed with PCR
Disease is usually self-limiting but supportive care can be provided to aid recovery
Immunity is short-lived so herds are susceptible to re-infection every few years

Differential Diagnoses

Salmonellosis
Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV)
Johne’s Disease (Paratuberculosis)
Coccidiosis

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 →