Three-day stiff sickness: low mortality, yet high morbidity

Three-day stiff sickness (TDS), also known as bovine ephemeral fever, is a viral disease in cattle that is transmitted by midges and mosquitoes. The Culicoides midge (also responsible for the transmission of bluetongue in sheep and African horse sickness in equines) and Anopheles mosquito are the primary vectors of TDS. The disease cannot be transmitted via direct contact.

While mortality is low (generally less than 1%), TDS can have a severe impact on livestock production. For example, cows in advanced stages of gestation may suddenly abort, and milk production in dairy cows may decline significantly. TDS may also have a temporary effect on the fertility of bulls.

ANIMALS SHOULD BE VACCINATED ANNUALLY AGAINST THREE-DAY STIFF SICKNESS

Infected animals may experience a sudden onset of fever (40°C to 41°C). They also experience muscle stiffness (hence the name), lie down and are