Outbreak of disease in bulls ‘will not affect’ spring cattle breeding

FARM groups have welcomed the fact that spring 2011 cattle breeding will not be affected by an IBR outbreak among bulls housed at three National Cattle Breeding Centre (NBCB) accommodation centres.

The NBCB has confirmed traces of the upper respiratory tract illness Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis among some bulls at its centre at Enfield, Co Meath. However, the centre has significant reserves of semen in stock to meet spring 2011 demands.

Upon the outbreak, the NBCB instantly notified the Department of Agriculture. Appropriate agreed actions were taken and all affected bulls are to be slaughtered.

NCBC chief executive Bernard Eivers said: “Unfortunately, a number of excellent EBI dairy sires have been removed, including SOK, KOZ, FLT, HRJ, UPH, GVV, NFT, IRP and GMZ. High profile beef sires have also been affected including: CF85, KIB, FL25, CVV, FIW and AGI.

“While we all share the disappointment of the occurrence at the breeding centre, we are fortunate to have substantial strategic reserves of semen in stock, from collections prior to the occurrence, in sufficient volume to meet Spring 2011 demand.

“All semen in stock is of the highest health standard, IBR-free and available to customers through their breeding advisors and AI technicians as per normal practice. Customers can be assured that there will not be a problem with the supply of excellent high EBI semen during the upcoming breeding season.”

ICMSA deputy president and ICBF board member John Comer said he was satisfied that the professionalism and expertise of the staff meant that the undoubted problems would be addressed and solved.

Mr Comer said the outbreak at National Cattle Breeding Centre highlights the need for real vigilance.

He added that serious damage had been inflicted on the Active Bulls List and resources and research would have to be directed towards repairing that list.

Mr Comer said that the emphasis must be on prevention of any recurrence.

A relatively common disease with no significant threat to human health, IBR occurs in the nose and throat of cattle.

Clinical signs include coughing, nasal and ocular discharge, high temperatures, drooling, loss of appetite, milk drop and infertility.