Application of beta-1,3-glucan to prevent shipping fever in imported heifers.

Particulated beta-1,3-glucan from Saccharomyces cerevisiae was evaluated to prevent shipping fever in imported heifers during the 15 days following their arrival to Cuba. Seventy seven animals received a single subcutaneous dose (5 mg/kg body weight) during the first 12 h following their arrival, whereas 44 served as untreated controls. Clinical symptoms were observed in 3 treated and 19 untreated animals (p < 0.001). One untreated heifer died. These observations confirm the usefulness of beta-1,3-glucan to prevent shipping fever.