Serological, colostral and milk responses of cows vaccinated with a single dose of a combined vaccine against rotavirus, coronavirus and Escherichia coli F5 (K99)

Abstract

Twenty-five Ayrshire/Friesian cows were vaccinated once with a new combined vaccine against rotavirus, coronavirus and Escherichia coli F5 (K99) or given a saline placebo 31 days before the first expected calving date. Blood samples were taken from the cows at intervals from vaccination until seven days after calving and from their calves up to 28 days after birth, and colostrum and milk samples were collected from the cows at intervals for 28 days after calving. There was a significant increase in the mean specific antibody titre against all three antigens in the serum of the vaccinated animals (even in the presence of pre-existing antibody) which was accompanied by increased levels of protective antibodies to rotavirus, coronavirus and E coli F5 (K99) in their colostrum and milk for at least 28 days.