Vaccination advisement for swine farmers: Crucial inoculation given initial recommendation

New Vaccine for Swine Dysentery Receives Positive Opinion from EMA

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recommended the approval of a new vaccine for swine dysentery, marking a significant step forward in disease control and food safety. The vaccine, developed by Hippovax, is the first of its kind to receive a positive opinion for approval in the European Union.

Swine dysentery is a diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Brachyspira hyodysenteriae. It poses a significant threat to fattening pigs, and its control is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of livestock.

The vaccine, an injectable emulsion containing an inactive strain of the bacterium and an adjuvant to stimulate the animal's immune response, has shown promising results in two previous studies investigating its safety and efficacy.

The approach of administering the vaccine in this manner has been found to reduce the incidence of the diarrheal disease in commercial operations in two European countries. The first dose is given at five weeks of age, and the second at eight weeks.

Upon receiving the EMA's recommendation, the positive opinion will be forwarded to the European Union, enabling the process for EU-wide market authorization to proceed. Once approved, the vaccine will be available for use in commercial operations across multiple European countries.

The EMA's risk assessment has classified the vaccine as a new active substance and considers it safe for human and animal health, consumers, and the environment. The vaccine's safety and efficacy will continue to be monitored closely after its EU-wide market authorization, ensuring its continued suitability for use in commercial operations.

The vaccine's progress through the approval process underscores the importance of continued research and development in veterinary medicine. The European Union's commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of livestock and food safety is evident in this approval process.

The reduction in the incidence of dysenteric diarrhea in fattening pigs is expected with the vaccine's widespread use. This development represents a significant step towards maintaining the health and productivity of Europe's swine industry.