Bovine PinkeyeInfectious Bovine KeratonconjunctivitisVeterinary ScienceWhat is Bovine Pinkeye?Bovine Pinkeye is a contagious disease caused by the bacteria Moraxella bovis also known as infectious bovine keratonconjunctivitis (IBK). Cattle are the only known carrier of this bacteria and it can be found in both normal and diseased eyes. Moraxella bovis is a unique bacteria in that: • Has feet that help the bacteria stick to the eyes rather than being washed away by tears • Produces a chemical that eats away at the cornea, causing an ulcer • Harmful/attacks the blood cells whiteFactors and irritantsOther factors and Irritants responsible for the development of pink eye include:• Tall weeds and grass in grazing areas• Dust from upper bunks• Hay dust from large round bales• Ambient dust - dry/windy • Pollen • Excessive exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays from the sun • Overcrowding, close confinement, inadequate sleeping space • Transportation stress Who is at risk Most affected and those most at risk: • Young people most affected animals, however, any age can be affected• English breeds (i.e. Hereford, Hereford crosses, Charolais and some Holsteins) lack pigment in the skin surrounding the eyes and eyelids; are more sensitive due to increased sensitivity to sunlight and a decreased immune response of the eyes. • Calves are more likely to develop the disease than adult cattle. As adults, they appear to have developed protective antibodies on the surface of the eye. • Calves born to heifers have more problems than calves. born to adult cows.• Bull calves have a higher incidence of disease than heifers (for unknown reason)• Incidence increases in spring...... middle of article ......atonconjunctivitis: Introduction (Pinkeye, Infectious Ophthalmia), www.merckvetmanual.comNovartis Animal Health, Vaccine for Beef Cattle. July 12, 2010 http://www.livestock.novartis.comPinkeye in Beef Cattle, W. Dee Whittier, DVM, Extension Specialist, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia Tech; John Currin DVM, clinical education, large animal clinical sciences, Virginia Tech; Nancy Currin, DVM, laboratory assistant, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia Tech. http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/400/400-750/400-750.htmlGeorge L. 1990. Management of bovine conjunctivitis in veal calves. Cal Ag 44(2):11-12. DOI: 10.3733/ca.v044n02p11University of Tennessee Extension, Animal Sciences, Information Series: AS - 307Pinkeye in Beef Cattle; Hopkins, Fred M, Department of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine; Gill, W. Warren, University of Tennessee Department of Animal Sciences