Enzootic abortion vaccine available again ‘just in time’

Inconvenient delays in sourcing an abortion vaccine could be over in the nick of time, according to the manufacturers of the product.

Later-breeding flocks can now be protected by enzootic abortion (EAE) vaccine Cevac Chlamydia after “stock challenges” earlier in the year, says manufacturer Ceva.

Following delays, Ceva has advised farmers of the following details when using the vaccine:

• The vaccine can be used no later than four weeks before the rams go in
• Shearlings (one year or older) and older can be vaccinated within four months before tupping
• Ewe lambs can be vaccinated with Cevac Chlamydia from five months of age.

See also: Batch failure and Brexit blamed for vaccine shortages

Sheep vet Fiona Lovatt, a former Sheep Veterinary Society president, said vaccine shortages had been “incredibly frustrating” for farmers and vets, but added it was really good news that stock was now available.

“It should be just about in time for those tupping later in October,” said Ms Lovatt. “An outbreak of EAE is devastating and vaccination is a key tool to protect ewes.”