Affiliation:
1. University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Sciences, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough, LE12 5RD
Abstract
The mucosa is the largest component of the immune system, providing a first line of defence against most pathogens encountered. Although the mucosa is located in all areas where there are mucosal surfaces (such as the respiratory and urogenital tracts), the clinical importance of diarrhoea in calf veterinary practice means the gastrointestinal mucosa is of particular interest. Taking steps to promote good health of the gastrointestinal mucosa can enhance gastrointestinal mucosal immunity and aid prevention of calf diarrhoea, the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in calves under 1 month old.