Pfizer Animal Health announces the launch of Poulvac E coli, the first
spray vaccine against avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC)
for the poultry industry to be approved in the European Union.
This new vaccine is based on a European E. coli isolate, and has
been shown to provide a broad protection against field infections found
in the region. It can be administered from one day of age, and studies
have shown that it generates a strong immune response that reduces
mortality for up to 12 weeks1-4. The vaccine has a zero-day withdrawal
period. Revaccination depending on local field pressure and risk
assessment can be considered in consultation with a veterinarian.
This vaccine represents the first effective vaccine that can be
administered en masse to birds to prevent often devastating infections
with E. coli in poultry. It represents an innovation for the
market as the first ever product to be administered by coarse spray.
The new product provides a new preventative option for both producers
and veterinarians, as Erik Uyttebroek, marketing director at Pfizer
Poultry EuAfME, explains:
“The layer sector has access to very few effective antibiotics that do
not cause violative residues in eggs. In fact, in some countries there
is no licensed anti-infective at all that can be used in layers to treat
diseased birds. For these businesses, Poulvac E coli will provide an
effective means of controlling APEC and improving animal health and
welfare.”
Mr Uyttebroek believes the new vaccine will be particularly useful for
protecting high value birds, such as replacement layers and breeders,
which have a relatively long life span.
“This is the first modified live vaccine against APEC to be launched in
the EU, and is the first that you administer directly to the birds you
want to protect, rather than vaccinating the breeders and relying on
maternal antibodies.”
“Some producers have tried to use auto-vaccines to protect their flocks
against APEC, but this means injecting birds individually, which is far
from ideal. Plus, these vaccines can also cause unwanted reactions in
some birds. Poulvac E coli represents an effective and less labour
intensive alternative,” says Mr Uyttebroek.
Poulvac E coli has been available to US poultry producers for more than
two years and is also licensed in a number of Latin American countries.
APEC is an opportunistic pathogen which usually produces infections in
birds that are immunocompromised or stressed, for example as a result of
a primary respiratory infection. It is recognised as a significant cause
of financial loss to the poultry industry worldwide.
References
1. Data on file, Study Report No. PPH-0006,
Pfizer Inc.
2. Data on file, Study Report No. PL-178-2007, Pfizer
Inc.
3. Data on file, Study Report No. TIA 23663, Pfizer Inc.
4.
Data on file, Study Report No. PL-198-2007, Pfizer Inc.
About Pfizer Animal Health
Pfizer Animal Health, a
business unit of Pfizer Inc., is a global leader in the discovery,
development, manufacture and commercialization of animal health
medicines and vaccines, with a focus on both livestock and companion
animals. For more than 60 years, we have been committed to enhancing the
health of animals and bringing solutions to our customers who raise and
care for them. To learn more, visit www.pfizeranimalhealth.com.
Garnett Keeler PR
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