Farmers advised on SBV vaccine
Farmers considering the use of the newly authorised Schmallenberg virus (SBV) vaccine have been advised to seek veterinary advice.
Key livestock and related industry organisations, including the British Veterinary Association (BVA), have issued a joint statement urging farmers to take advice from their vet before deciding to vaccinate their stock against SBV.
It is thought that SBV is largely spread by biting insects, such as midges, and particularly affects sheep, cattle and goats. Clinical signs can include a drop in milk production, fever and diahorrea in adult cattle, abortion or early embryonic death.
Jim McLaren, chairman of Quality Meat Scotland, said: "If livestock keepers experience abortions in their livestock they should not assume that the cause is SBV. There are many other possible reasons for abortions and keepers should contact their veterinary practitioner for further advice."
Authorised in May this year, Bovilis SBV is the first vaccine against SBV to be authorised for use anywhere in the EU.
It is as yet unknown how long immunity to SBV provided by the vaccine will last and farmers are advised to agree any revaccination schemes with their vet.
The vaccine cannot be used in pregnant animals and cattle from two months of age will need two 2ml doses to be injected. Therefore, it is now too late to vaccinate cows mated for calving in spring 2014.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
