Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Interdigital phlegmon, footrot (FR) is one of the most frequent diseases (74% of all lameness diagnoses), with calves more likely to have FR, resulting in lower ADG and considerable losses to producers. Current scientific evidence suggests that FR is a polymicrobial infection, with Fusobacterium necrophorum being the bacterial pathogen isolated most frequently, followed by Polyphyromonas levii and Prevotella intermedia.
There is one vaccine in Canada for the control of FR — The Fusogard®️ vaccine, which has been on the market for many years, but is rarely used in Alberta feedlot cattle because it lacks efficacy and cost-benefit, and animals need to be vaccinated twice within 21 days, making administration in a feedlot logistically difficult and costly.
This research aims to develop a single shot multivalent FR vaccine that incorporates current isolates of F. necrophorum together with antigens of other pathogens associated with FR in western Canada. This single shot vaccine will significantly reduce the economic burden associated with revaccination, including vaccine and labor costs, and reduce concerns about meat withdrawal periods.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
Development of an effective vaccine against FR would benefit Alberta and Canada's cattle industry be considerably reducing the economic losses associated with treatment and labor, reduced growth performance, and culling whilst improving animal welfare.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Results will be presented to beef producers at provincial and national meetings such as the Alberta Beef Congress and the Western Canadian Association of Bovine Practitioners. They will also be published in industry magazines like Canadian Cattlemen and Alberta Beef, and scientific journals such as Vaccine and Bovine Practitioner. At least three scientific publications are anticipated. Results will also be disseminated through the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) website and annual reports.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.