VMD asserts safety of Leptospira vaccine
Vets are reminded to tailor vaccination programmes for specific animals.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has reaffirmed the safety of the Leptospira vaccine, after adverse events were reported for L2 and L4 vaccines.
The statement comes amidst media reports and social media post which raised concerns amidst adverse events in vaccinated dogs.
There are several Leptospira vaccines authorised for use in the UK that either contain two strains (L2) or four strains (L4) of Leptospira bacteria. The VMD says that the overall incidence of adverse events remains rare, and therefore its benefits outweigh its risks.
In its latest analysis of adverse events in L2 vaccine products, the VMD says that incidence of adverse events combined was 0.016 per cent. Meanwhile, for L4 vaccine products, this figure was 0.040 per cent.
This means that, for every 10,000 estimated animals treated, the VMD has received fewer than two adverse events for L2 and fewer than four adverse events for L4.
The VMD’s data for adverse events involving death, including euthanasia, was similarly low. For all L2 vaccine products the percentage was at 0.0017 per cent, while for L4 vaccine products it was 0.0033 per cent.
The VMD says that, therefore, incidence of adverse effects was rare and those involving death was very rare.
There has also been concern from the veterinary industry and members of the public that some Leptospira vaccines are being withdrawn from the market. While the VMD says it cannot prevent such occurrences, it is reassuring pet owners that both L2 and L4 Leptospira vaccines remain available.
Veterinary surgeons are being reminded to tailor vaccination programmes for each individual animal. These programmes should be informed by the local disease risk, as well as other potential risks that will be listed in the Summary of Product Characteristics and product information.
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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. 
