New IBR vaccine launched
MSD Animal Health has launched an inactivated marker vaccine to extend the control options available to vets for Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR).
The new vaccine, called Bovilis IBR Marker Inac, is hoped to offer greater simplicity and flexibility to vets when treating herds.
It belongs to an IBR range by the company, and is designed to complement the Bovilis IBR Marker Live vaccination.
Drew McGurren, MSD's ruminant veterinary adviser, suggested that farmers can now start IBR vaccination of their cattle from three months of age with a single-shot primary course of Bovilis IBR marker Live, followed by boosters every six months using a single dose of either Bovilis IBR Marker Live or Bovilis IBR Marker Inac.
"Alternatively, Bovilis IBR Marker Inac can be administered to cattle from three months of age as a primary course of two injections four weeks apart," he said. "The programme then follows a six-monthly single-dose booster regime."
Both primary course and boosters can by administered by the same intramuscular route. The new vaccine is a prescription-only medicine (POM-V) and is available in 10 and 50 dose vials from wholesalers.
"The availability of Bovillis IBR Marker Inac provides a simple control option in defined farm situations, not least where an alternative to the live vaccine is preferred or required," continued Mr McGurren.
"Overall, we see this development adding convenience, ease of use and flexibility for veterinary surgeons as they work with their clients to control a significant disease threat in dairy and beef cattle in the UK."
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. 
