MSD Animal Health announced in August 2024 that it has received Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) approval for the first vaccine in Great Britain to protect cattle against the parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidiosis is “one of the most significant gastrointestinal diseases” in cattle. BOVILIS CRYPTIUM is indicated for the active immunisation of pregnant heifers and cows to raise antibodies in colostrum against Gp40 of Cryptosporidium parvum.
A widespread threat
Dr Kat Baxter-Smith, veterinary adviser with MSD Animal Health states that C. parvum is the most common cause of infectious scour in the UK.
“Cryptosporidiosis is widespread on UK dairy and suckler cattle units and is prevalent throughout the year.”
Although it is “mostly seen in calves” between 7 and 14 days old, it can “strike at any time”.
“Infection with the parasite causes blunting of the intestinal villi, reducing capacity for nutrient and water absorption. This has a significant impact on a calf’s future productivity.”
Dr Baxter-Smith acknowledges that calves who have suffered “severe disease” were found to weigh 34kg less on average than “low disease calves” in a recent study. This reportedly equated to a £161 reduction in calf sale price.
BOVILIS CRYPTIUM
Vaccination of pregnant heifers and cows with BOVILIS CRYPTIUM can provide protection for calves from birth at the start of colostrum feeding; this is when they are “most vulnerable”. Active immunisation raises antibodies against C. parvum in colostrum, helping to reduce clinical signs in calves. The primary vaccination course is two doses, 4 to 5 weeks apart in the third trimester of pregnancy but at least 3 weeks before calving. Cattle that have had this primary course then only need a single booster dose in subsequent pregnancies.
Dr Baxter-Smith emphasises that 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.”
Dr Philippe Houffschmitt, associate vice president of the global ruminant business at MSD Animal Health, is “proud” of the “innovative vaccine”. This is a “new, science-driven way to combat the devastating parasite”.
“This novel vaccine offers preventive neonatal protection, which can help preserve cattle well-being from the earliest days of life, as well as help contribute to global food production and safety.”
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