Vaccines are a critical tool in maintaining the health of dairy cows, calves, and heifers. By stimulating the immune system, vaccines prompt the animal’s body to produce antibodies that recognize and respond to specific disease-causing organisms. When an animal is later exposed to that pathogen, its immune system can respond more quickly and effectively.
Vaccination reduces the risk of disease and can also lessen the severity of symptoms if an illness does occur. As a result, vaccines are a fundamental part of preventive herd health programs. They act as a form of insurance—ideally never needed, but vital when disease threats arise.
Understanding Vaccine Types
Vaccines used in dairy cattle generally fall into two categories:
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Killed (Inactivated) Vaccines: Made from viruses or bacteria that have been rendered non-infectious.
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Modified Live Vaccines (MLVs): Contain weakened versions of pathogens that do not cause illness but still trigger an immune response.
Selecting the appropriate vaccine depends on factors such as the age and category of the animal (calf, heifer, cow), disease risks specific to the herd, and regional disease prevalence. It is important to work with a herd veterinarian to develop a tailored vaccination plan. Once selected, proper storage, handling, and administration are key to ensuring vaccine effectiveness.
Best Practices for Vaccine Administration
Before Administering
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Review the label insert each time a new vial is used. Dosage or administration instructions may vary between manufacturers or updated products.
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Be aware of the administration route. Some vaccines, particularly for calf pneumonia, are given intranasally.
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When given a choice between subcutaneous (sub-Q) or intramuscular (IM) injection, choose sub-Q unless otherwise directed. This minimizes muscle damage.
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Administer all injections in the neck area, unless the label specifically directs otherwise. Injections in the flank or hindquarters can reduce carcass quality.
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Verify the expiration date of all vaccines. Expired products may be less effective or ineffective.
Choosing Needles and Injection Sites
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Use single-use needles whenever possible to reduce the risk of spreading blood-borne diseases such as Bovine Leukosis Virus (BLV).
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Select the correct needle size based on the injection type, animal size, and the viscosity of the vaccine:
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For sub-Q injections: use ¾ to 1-inch needles.
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For IM injections: use 1 to 1½-inch needles.
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Limit the volume per injection site to 10 cc, and space injection sites at least 5 inches apart when multiple injections are needed.
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Dispose of needles safely using appropriate sharps containers or sealed plastic bottles to avoid accidental injury.
Proper Handling and Storage
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Follow the full vaccination schedule, including boosters if required. Incomplete dosing may lead to reduced or no immune protection. Use a wall calendar or herd management software to track vaccine schedules and follow-up doses.
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Store vaccines in the main compartment of the refrigerator, not in the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations.
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Do not reconstitute more vaccine than needed at one time. Modified live vaccines degrade rapidly when exposed to heat or light.
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Keep reconstituted vaccines cool in a portable cooler with an ice pack. Use a barrier (e.g., bubble wrap or cloth) to prevent freezing.
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Use sterile equipment for reconstituting vaccines. If using a transfer needle, sterilize it by boiling—do not use alcohol, as it can damage live vaccine components.
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Gently mix reconstituted vaccines by rocking the vial back and forth. Avoid shaking, which can damage vaccine components.
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Do not leave needles or syringes inserted in vaccine vials during storage. This can introduce bacteria and lead to contamination.
Recordkeeping Requirements
Maintain clear and accurate records for all vaccinations and treatments. At a minimum, records should include:
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Product name
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Date of administration
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Animal identification
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Person who administered the product
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Withdrawal times for both milk and meat
Records should be retained for at least two years, as they may be requested during audits or regulatory reviews. Avoid using temporary tracking methods, such as dry-erase boards, which are not permanent or reliable.
Conclusion
Vaccination is a key component of herd health and disease prevention. When selected and administered correctly, vaccines protect both animal well-being and farm profitability. Collaborate with your herd veterinarian to ensure your vaccination program is tailored to your farm’s specific needs and review procedures regularly to maintain effectiveness.
