Frequently, due to its small size, no fetus is seen although an abortion has occurred. Some females may carry the fetus longer and may abort a sizeable fetus 5 to 6 months into the gestation period. Retained placentas are common, but gross fetal or placental lesions are not of diagnostic value. Diagnosis is confirmed by culture of the causative organism from cervical mucus or from an aborted fetus. Vibriosis is somewhat self-limiting as most of the cattle recover within a year.
Disease carriers are common, however, and new infection can spread to non-exposed animals.
Vibriosis can be prevented from entering a herd by administering a vaccine about one month prior to breeding. The use of artificial insemination is also valuable in limiting disease spread. Most A.I. organizations test the semen to assure that it is free of vibriosis and trichomoniasis. Caused by Trichomonas fetus , this venereal disease can cause abortions and infertility. It may cause inflammation and uterine discharge for four to six months.