Schmallenberg vaccine approved
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has announced that UK farmers will be the first in the EU to gain access to a vaccine against schmallenberg (SBV) virus.
Pharmaceutical company MSD Animal Health has been issued a licence to provide the vaccine known as "Bovilis SBV".
When Bovilis SBV becomes available this summer, cattle and sheep will be able to have the vaccination before they become pregnant, protecting the foetus from damage caused by SBV.
News of the vaccine has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA). President Peter Jones, said: "Given the serious worry that this new disease has caused and the significant losses that individual farmers have faced, the news that a vaccine is now available should be warmly welcomed.
"Farmers can now plan with good veterinary advice how, where and when to use the vaccine to protect their animals and their offspring."
News of the vaccine was reported in the media in February, when the VMD confirmed that MSD had applied for provisional marketing authorisation at the end of August 2012.
The VMD is usually unable to comment on applications it has received but the exception was made due to the high levels of industry and media interest in a possible vaccine.
Bovilis SBV will be available across the UK from summer 2013.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
