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First cryptosporidiosis vaccine approved for use
The vaccine course will need to be given during the third trimester.
The new vaccine will provide protection to calves.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate has approved the first vaccine in Great Britain that protects cattle against the parasite which causes cryptosporidiosis.

Developed by MSD Animal Health, the Bovilis Cryptium vaccine can be used on pregnant heifers and cows to raise antibodies in colostrum against Gp40 of Cryptosporidium parvum.

The C. parvum parasite is one of the commonest causes of infectious scour in the UK. The disease can occur at any age, but it is most frequently seen in calves aged seven to 14 days.

The new vaccine is able to provide protection for calves from the start of colostrum feeding, which is when they are most vulnerable.

The primary vaccination course will be two doses, administered four to five weeks apart during the third trimester of pregnancy. It will need to be completed at least three weeks before calving. Cattle that have previously had the primary vaccination will only need a single booster dose during future pregnancies.

Kat Baxter-Smith, veterinary adviser with MSD Animal Health, said: “The protection of calves depends on adequate ingestion of colostrum and transition milk from vaccinated cows.

“It is recommended that all calves are fed colostrum and transition milk during the first five days of life. At least three litres of colostrum should be fed within the first six hours after birth.”

Philippe Houffschmitt, associate vice-president of the global ruminant business at MSD Animal Health, added: “MSD Animal Health is proud to offer this innovative vaccine – a new, science-driven way to combat the devastating parasite C. parvum, which impacts Europe and the rest of the world.”

“This novel vaccine offers preventive neonatal protection, which can help preserve cattle wellbeing from the earliest days of life, as well as help contribute to global food production and safety.”

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.