The Beef Podcast Show - #30 - Insights on Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) and its management

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) is a disease that suppresses the immune system and exacerbates other existing problems in the herd, thus greatly impacting various segments of the beef industry. In this episode, Dr. Bob Larson provides a lot of valuable information on the use of diagnostic tests to detect BVD in persistently infected (PI) calves, since they are the major contributors to the spread of the disease. He also discusses vaccines and their limitations, as well as a holistic strategy to successfully control BVD in our herds.  

What you’ll learn:

1. What is BVD and why is it a concern? 

2. BVD-associated problems and symptoms   

3. Persistently infected (PI) animals

4. Management practices to eliminate BVD  

5. Management of temporarily infected animals  

6. Consequences of BVD for the productivity of your herd  

7. Eradicating the virus or eliminating it from your herd 

Meet the guest

Dr. Bob Larson

Experience

     ○ Current: Professor of Production Medicine at Kansas State University

     ○ Past: Professor at the University of Missouri; private veterinary practitioner.

Background

     ○ Ph.D., (Kansas State University)

     ○ D.V.M. (Kansas State University)

     ○ B.Sc. (Kansas State University)

Hobbies: woodworking, spending time with family and friends, K-State athletics

Favorite book, movie or TV series: I like to read mysteries (I am currently reading a series by Margery Allingham).

Favorite quote: "It is impossible for anyone to learn that which he thinks he already knows" - Epictetus

A tip for success: Find people who can provide information and services that have high value.