2-3 FB Vaccinations

Proper Timing of Vaccinations to Help Develop the Best Immunity

Vaccination is one of the most important methods of preventing infections and disease in a herd. Vaccinations reduce the occurrence of disease outbreaks and the severity of disease in a herd. Vaccination programs can be tailored to meet individual producers' needs, depending on herd location, overall herd health, history of the herd and a variety of other factors. The last statement was complicated so I asked Boehringer-Ingelheim brand manager Wayne Cole for an explanation: “Based on the variety of combinations we have, of different antigens, a producer can select a product based on his vet’s recommendations that best fits his need of his herd based on his disease challenge and his area.” While the type of vaccine administered is a central part of herd health, the proper timing of vaccinations is also significant.

Cows and heifers should be vaccinated between 30 and 60 days prior to breeding in order to develop the best immunity and protection against several reproductive diseases. Vaccinating cows and heifers at this time allows them time to develop an immune response prior to bull exposure.