Weekly Livestock-Equine News: October 26, 2026

AI eye scan could replace invasive TB testing for cattle

Producers could screen cattle for bovine tuberculosis more quickly using artificial intelligence that examines images of the eye for signs of disease, according to AI for the Eye, an early-stage project developed by founder Michaela Thorne from the University of Edinburgh. The approach could allow farmers and animal health professionals to carry out an initial check without repeatedly handling livestock, making large-scale screening quicker and less disruptive. AI for the Eye was named runner-up in the KickStart Challenge at the Converge Awards for technology, a program to develop and support new businesses in Scotland based on university intellectual property.

Swine producers, scientists trying to stay ahead of ASF

African Swine Fever outbreaks have a major impact on food production and livelihoods. For many years, developing a vaccine proved difficult because the virus is unusually large and complex, according to England’s Pirbright Institute. Recently, researchers have made significant progress with a live attenuated vaccine. Still, vaccine developers face a continuing obstacle – the diversity of ASF viruses circulating around the world. Pirbright Institute researchers conclude that vaccines are important in controlling ASF, but they are not a standalone solution. Effective surveillance, strong biosecurity practices and continued scientific research will all be needed to stay ahead of it.

Boehringer Ingelheim launches dual-genotype porcine circovirus type 2 vaccine

Boehringer Ingelheim launched INGELVAC CIRCOFLEX AD in Canada, combining PCV2a and PCV2d genotypes in a single dose. While several genotypes have been identified, the industry has observed a clear shift over the past decade, with PCV2d becoming the predominant genotype in Canada and globally, according to the company. Porcine circovirus associated disease is caused by the PCV2 virus and can lead to severe weight loss, difficulty breathing and diarrhea.

PennVet professor gets USDA grant to study the first months of calves’ lives

Dipti Pitta, MVSc, PhD, professor of ruminant nutrition at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, received a $1.5M grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to build a new calf nursery and housing for growing and breeding heifers. “By keeping calves and heifers at the Marshak Dairy from birth through their first lactation, and pairing that with automated feeding and precision monitoring, we can finally see how early-life care translates into lifelong health, welfare and performance,” said Pitta.

WLA Health launches equine inhalation system with Aerogen technology in Europe

Swiss animal health company WLA Health & Care AG has launched the Bibo Pulmifier Equine, an equine inhalation system built on the vibrating mesh technology of aerosol drug delivery company Aerogen. Vibrating mesh technology uses precision-made mesh that vibrates at a very high frequency to turn liquid medication into an aerosol. Aerogen’s technology has already support over 30 million human respiratory patients in 80 countries.

Can feed supplement help fall calves cope with following year’s heat stress?

A study at the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station will evaluate whether a commercial feed additive containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can lessen the physiological effects of heat stress during the backgrounding phase – the period between weaning and finishing – and improve meat quality. Heat stress can reduce animal growth by decreasing feed efficiency and can negatively affect meat quality. The study is supported by a $20,000 grant from the Arkansas Beef Council.