Ephemeral Fever:

12.4.11 Ephemeral Fever:

This is an acute viral disease of cattle that occurs sporadically; and sometimes several animals can be affected at about the same time. It is also known as “3 Day Sickness.” It is seen mostly in the rainy season and is thought to be spread by insects. Most animals recover on their own with no treatment.

Symptoms: Affected animals have a sudden high fever, difficulty in breathing, lack of appetite, as well as lameness and stiffness (sometimes the animal refuses to stand). Lactating animals will experience a major drop in milk production. Other symptoms may be shivering, discharge from the eyes and nose, excess salivation, difficulty swallowing, and extra fluid under the skin, particularly around the joints.

Diagnosis: The diagnosis is difficult and based on symptoms. Symptoms can include a combination of lameness, fever and difficulty breathing, as well as the tendency for most animals to recover on their own.

Treatment/Control/Prevention: No treatment is available. Efforts should be made to keep the animal as comfortable as possible. Give the animal aspirin or any other medicine that relieves pain and reduces fever. If the animal cannot stand, be sure to provide for soft ground and provide it with water, shade (in hot weather) and protection from the wind (in cold weather).