Ephemeral fever, also known as three-day fever, bovine ephemeral fever, or Bovine Pestivirus fever, is a viral infection that affects domestic and wild ruminants, particularly cattle. This disease is caused by the Ephemeral fever virus, a member of the genus Pestivirus within the family Flaviviridae. The virus is typically transmitted through insect vectors such as mosquitoes and biting midges, although it can also be spread through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily secretions.
The term "ephemeral" in the context of this fever refers to the relatively short duration of the illness, lasting typically for three to five days. Symptoms of ephemeral fever include sudden onset of high fever, general malaise, loss of appetite, reluctance to move, lameness, excessive salivation, and sometimes respiratory distress. Affected animals may exhibit arched backs, stiff gait, joint swelling, and muscle tremors.
While the mortality rate of ephemeral fever is generally low, the disease can cause significant economic losses due to reduced milk production, weight loss, and decreased fertility in affected animals. In regions where the disease is endemic, outbreaks can occur during warmer seasons when insect populations are more abundant.
Diagnosis of ephemeral fever is primarily based on clinical signs, serological testing, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. There are no specific antiviral treatments available for this viral infection, with supportive care being the main approach. Vaccination is also practiced in some regions to prevent or minimize the impact of outbreaks.
Efforts to control ephemeral fever focus on vector control measures such as insecticide application, implementation of good hygiene practices, and quarantine of affected animals to prevent further transmission.
