BROOKINGS, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota State University Extension is recommending cattle producers to watch out for pinkeye, one of the most common and economically damaging cattle diseases.

Pinkeye is the common name for infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis. It is a contagious disease causing inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva.

The SDSU Extension says cattle producers every year lose an estimated $150 million due to reductions in weight gain, decreases in milk production, treatment costs and potential price discounts for affected animals.

Janna Kincheloe is an SDSU Extension research associate. She says the climate this growing season, including moist conditions and lush forage, is optimal for pinkeye.

Kincheloe adds that wet weather typically increases the incidence of face flies that irritate eyes and help spread the disease.

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