Kilkenny-based Glanbia develops new vaccine to protect herds

GLANBIA Ireland has sourced and licensed a new vaccine to meet the needs of herdowners.

The Kilkenny-based good and agri giant, in conjunction with Co-op Animal Health, has developed a new Leptospirosis vaccine following the poor availability of other Lepto vaccines this year.

Glanbia vet Shane McElroy has verified that the ‘BioBos L’ product meets the required quality, efficacy and safety standards to protect animals from the bacterial disease.

This vaccine has been licensed and used in other EU countries for many years, but has never been used in Ireland, mainly due to the availability of other Lepto vaccines.

Bioveta, the manufacturer of the BioBos L product, is a highly regarded pharmaceutical company based in the Czech Republic and contract manufacture vaccines and other medicines for other well-known pharmaceutical companies.

Regarding the timing of Lepto vaccination that is different this year due to availability of the vaccine, Shane McElroy said that while you would not normally choose to vaccinate the herd during breeding, the risks of this are minimal, and are far outweighed by the benefit of having pregnancies protected throughout the summer from this highly prevalent disease.

In addition, he pointed out that human health will “unnecessarily be put at risk where disease protection by vaccination is allowed to lapse”.

Glanbia Ireland said in a statement: “Demand for the vaccine has been strong, so early ordering is advised to secure the supply. The vaccine is available in a five dose bottle and is priced at €16. To purchase this vaccine contact your local Glanbia representative, visit your local branch or www.glanbiaconnect.com.”