VMD recalls chicken vaccine over efficacy concerns
The VMD has issued a product recall alert for a single batch of Salmovac 400.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has issued a product recall alert for a batch of Salmovac 440, manufactured by CEVA Animal Health, over concerns about its efficacy.
Salmovac 440 is used in chickens to protect them against Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium. Usually administered via drinking water, it contains the contains the live Salmonella Enteritidis strain in freeze-dried form.
The VMD writes: ‘We wish to make veterinary surgeons aware that Ceva Animal Health Ltd has initiated a Class II recall to veterinary level for the product Salmovac 440.
‘Following testing Ceva Animal Health Ltd have confirmed that Batch No. 3000520B with an Expiry date of 11 December 2021 has live bacterial count values (potency) below the authorised specification and there is potential for a lack of efficacy.
‘Ceva Animal Health Ltd is contacting veterinary surgeons to examine inventory immediately and quarantine products subject to this recall.’
Further information about the recall is available from Ms Helen Houghton, poultry business unit manager, on 01494 781510.
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. 
