Some Hematological and Biochemical Studies on Bovine Ephemeral Fever in El-sharkia Government

Bovine ephemeral fever (BEF) is an economically important viral disease of cattle that causes acute febrile illness, reduced productivity, and systemic complications. This study investigated hematological, biochemical, and immunological changes associated with BEF under field conditions and evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of antioxidant supplementation with vitamin E and selenium. Thirty cattle were divided into three groups: healthy controls, BEF-infected animals, and BEF-infected animals treated with vitamin E plus selenium in combination with phenylbutazone and fluoroquinolone for three consecutive days.Clinical observations confirmed typical BEF manifestations, including fever, lameness, stiffness, nasal discharge, and cessation of rumination. Hematological analysis revealed significant reductions in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin in infected cattle compared to controls, while these parameters improved following therapy. Serum biochemistry indicated elevations in liver enzymes (ALT, AST), urea, and creatinine, alongside reductions in phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, reflecting systemic organ dysfunction.Serological confirmation using the Virus Neutralization Test (VNT) verified BEFV infection in all clinically suspected cattle. Immunological assessment demonstrated marked increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL‑2 and IL‑6) in BEF-infected animals compared to healthy controls. Following treatment with vitamin E and selenium, cytokine levels were significantly reduced, approaching normal values. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between elevated IL‑6 levels and increased liver and kidney function markers, highlighting the systemic impact of BEF infection.Conclusion: This study provides integrated evidence clinical, hematological, biochemical, and serological of the pathophysiological impact of BEF. Antioxidant therapy with vitamin E and selenium not only improved hematological and biochemical profiles but also modulated cytokine expression. These findings suggest that antioxidant supplementation represents a practical, cost-effective, and scientifically substantiated therapeutic approach for managing BEF in endemic regions, with implications for improving animal health, productivity, and economic sustainability.