Colibacillosis in calves: A review of literature

Colibacillosis is considered as one of the most important problems faced in livestock production, causing great economic losses. Calves become exposed to pathogenic E. coli in the environment when other infected or carrier calves and cows shed the bacteria in the feces. Diagnosing of E. coli infection in calves depends on an accurate history, clinical signs, culture of internal organs for bacteria, and serotyping of the organism. This disease requires an immediate response, centered on isolation and rehydration therapy. Parental antibiotics can be useful if given early, but not without rehydration therapy. Prevalence of Colibacillosis varies from 5.4 to 100%, and it is roughly estimated that a calf mortality associated with Colibacillosis of 20% may reduce net profit to 40%. Thus, control and prevention measures should be conducted through the use of dam vaccination before calving, improve hygiene around calving and proper colostrum administration.