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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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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.