Farmers in UK urged to secure clostridial vaccines early due to shortages

Published Feb 15, 2023

Tridge summary

Animal health experts are warning farmers about potential shortages of clostridial vaccines and urging them to plan ahead, especially with the upcoming lambing and calving seasons. Despite some stock availability, experts recommend farmers consult with animal health advisors to ensure they have the necessary vaccines and understand the vaccination schedules. Coxexin 10 is mentioned as a crucial vaccine for both sheep and cattle, providing protection against several clostridial diseases. The National Office for Animal Health (NOAH) highlights clostridial vaccination as a top priority, emphasizing the importance of regular booster shots to prevent clostridial diseases, which can be fatal. These diseases pose a risk to unvaccinated livestock, with data showing that Pulpy kidney and Lamb Dysentery were among the most common diagnoses in young lambs within a specific timeframe.

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Original content

Animal health experts are advising farmers to secure clostridial vaccine supplies early in the run-up to lambing and calving due to shortages. According to numerous animal health experts, some clostridial vaccines have had supply challenges, and farmers must plan ahead. Although there are stocks of vaccines, Elizabeth Barratt, from Mole Country Store, urges farmers to speak with an animal health advisor about when to vaccinate and how many a farmer needs the vaccine for. "Discuss any alternative options available if you can’t get your required vaccination," said Ms Barratt, who is Farm SQP of the Year. There is currently stock available of Coxexin 10, which protects sheep and cattle against the 10 main clostridial strains. It also provides passive immunity to youngstock via colostrum when pregnant animals are given a booster 2 to 8 weeks before calving and lambing. Ideally, Covexin 10 should be given to animals in two doses in their first grazing season 4-6 weeks apart. Then ...

Source: FarmingUK