Guest Author: Dr. Ramanuj Panda, Founder and CEO of GoCarin
30 September 2024, New Delhi: Foot-and-Mouth disease (FMD) has known to be the most contagious viral diseases affecting the livestock, specially cattle. With posing a significant threat to animal health and severe economic losses due to low in productivity, trade restrictions and the cost required for the disease management. While measures like vaccination and biosecurity are critical in preventing the FMD outbreaks, people often overlook the importance of adequate nutrition to strengthen the immune system of cattle and reducing their vulnerability to such infections.
What is the link between immunity and nutrition
Nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining the health and well-being of the cattle. Same as in humans, the immune system of cattle falls heavily on the availability of essential nutrients to function optimally. In a well-balanced diet, necessary vitamins, proteins, minerals and energy are required to support the immune responses, produce antibodies and repair tissues. When cattle do not get the required and adequate nutrition, their immune system becomes compromised, making them more vulnerable to the infections like FMD.
What happens when there is inadequate nutrition in cattle.
1. Weakens the immune system Improper nutrition leads to weak immune system in cattle which the reduces their ability to fight off infections. Nutrients like zinc, selenium, and vitamins A and E are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. Deficiency in these nutrients can impair the production of white blood cells and antibodies, leaving cattle vulnerable to viral infections, including FMD.
2. High stress levels Inadequate nutrition can often result in high stress levels in cattle. Stress is one of the know factors that can subdue the immune system. Cattle under stress may exhibit reduced appetite, leading to further nutritional deficiencies, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates their vulnerability to diseases like FMD.
3. Delayed recovery
When infected with FMD, cattle’s recovery heavily depends on the levels of nutrition given to them. Cattle who are malnourished will take longer to recover from infections, and the gravity of the disease might be greater in undernourished animals. Adequate nutrition is essential for the repair of damaged tissues and the restoration of normal physiological functions, which are critical during the recovery phase.
4. Reduced vaccination efficacy
To prevent the Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreaks, vaccination is the most important key. However, the effects of the vaccination will decrease if there is poor nutrition in the cattle. A well-nourished animal is more likely to mount a robust immune response to vaccination, leading to better protection against the disease. On the other hand, malnourished cattle may fail to respond adequately to vaccines, leaving them at higher risk of contracting FMD.
Nutritional strategies one can use to reduce FMD risk
The risk of FMD in cattle can be reduced by nutritional strategies that support a strong immune system and overall optimal health.
1. Balanced Diet: The provision of a balanced diet containing all necessary nutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals is essential. Ensure proper amounts of trace minerals like zinc and selenium, which are important for immune’s function.
2. Supplementation: In some areas where the soil is mineral deficient, it may be necessary to supplement to meet the nutritional needs of cattle. Specific deficiency-related and general health-improving mineral blocks or enriched feeds can help.
3. Stress Management: Minimise stress in cattle through provision with a comfortable environment and reduce handling, ensure they have adequate access to clean water and food. Stress Management is very important in keeping a strong immune system.
4. Monitoring and Adjustment: Keep an eye on the nutritional levels of the animals and adjust from time to time as per the age, stage of production, and whether or not pregnant or health status of the cattle. Individualising nutrition for a herd helps maximise immune responses and minimises FMD chances.
Poor nutrition is a big risk factor that could make cattle more vulnerable to Foot-and-Mouth Disease. The proper way for farmers to ensure a good immune status in their livestock and enhance resistance to FMD or any other infection is through giving well-supplemented diets to the animals. This will reduce the risk of outbreak. Adequate nutrition, in addition to vaccination and biosecurity, constitutes a complete approach to disease protection.
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