We're excited to announce that an article by Semex's Dr. Shannon Beard, Mark Carson, Dr. Michael Lohuis, Dr. Francesca Malchiodi, and Dr. Bonnie Mallard, showcasing the power of Immunity+® genetics to fight Bird Flu, was published in the latest issue of the Journal of Dairy Science Communications. This article, titled “High immune responder cows have lower treatment risk and reduced milk loss during highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 outbreaks,” was so highly regarded that it is included in JDS Communication's Editor's Choice Collection.
This study evaluated whether genetic selection for improved immune response, using Immunity+ GEBVs, can increase resilience to HPAI H5N1 in commercial dairy herds. Treatment records and daily milk yield data were obtained from the herd management software for six large commercial dairy herds in the United States with confirmed HPAI H5N1 outbreaks.
The study found that cows with high Immunity+® GEBVs were 24% less likely to require supportive treatment than those with low Immunity+ GEBVs. High-immunity cows also experienced significantly less milk loss during the post-treatment fluctuation period than low-immunity cows.
“The study analyzed real-world data from dairy herds with confirmed HPAI H5N1 outbreaks and demonstrated that cows with higher Immunity+ genomic estimated breeding values required fewer treatments and experienced smaller milk production losses during disease events,” says Beard.
“Being selected as an Editor’s Choice reflects the journal’s recognition of the study as particularly timely, high-quality, and relevant to both the scientific community and the dairy industry,” she says. “For Immunity+®, this distinction further reinforces its position as a scientifically validated genetic tool for disease resilience, supported by peer-reviewed, field-based evidence. It highlights the value of breeding for resilience to reduce treatment needs and limit production disruptions during health challenges.”
Backed by over 25 years of research at the University of Guelph, Immunity Technology is a world-leading genetic solution that helps breed cows with naturally stronger immune systems. At 30% heritable, Immunity+-sired daughters have fewer cases of mastitis, lameness, retained placenta, ketosis, displaced abomasum, and metritis, and are better able to fight new diseases such as bird flu.
Semex CEO Matt McCready comments, “At Semex, we are focused on helping producers meet their on-farm goals with genetic strategies and advice that produce productive, healthy cows.”
“This study confirms that leveraging the power of Immunity+ on your farm results in animals that are more resistant to disease and maintain production better than their herd mates do.”
Click here to read full article on JDS Communications.
