Breakthrough in Livestock Health: First Vaccine for Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease Accelerated for Use
In a landmark move for animal health, the first vaccine against the Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease virus (EHDV) has been fast-tracked for use. The vaccine, named Hepizovac, developed by CZ Vaccines, received accelerated approval under a “decision to permission for use” decree issued by the minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN). This decision follows a positive evaluation by the Veterinary Medicines Office of the Agency for the Evaluation of Medicines (CBG) and the Veterinary Medicines Admission Committee (CTD).
A Virus with Familiar Traits
Table of Contents
The EHD virus shares striking similarities with the more widely known bluetongue virus. Both are transmitted by culicoides midges and primarily affect cattle and wild deer. However, unlike bluetongue, sheep and goats rarely show symptoms when infected with EHDV. This distinction has led to the vaccine being approved exclusively for cattle.
At the time of approval, the virus had not yet been detected in the Netherlands. the accelerated approval of Hepizovac is a proactive measure by the Ministry of LVVN to prepare for potential outbreaks.
How the Vaccine works
Hepizovac contains an inactivated EHD virus Serotype 8, the strain currently prevalent in France. While the inactivated virus does not cause illness, it stimulates an immune response, prompting the animal to produce antibodies. This ensures that if the animal is exposed to the virus later, it can quickly neutralize the threat, preventing or mitigating illness.
vaccination Protocol
Farmers are advised to consult their veterinarians for the management of hepizovac. The vaccination process involves two doses,administered three weeks apart. Full protection is achieved approximately three weeks after the second dose. A common side effect is mild swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves without intervention.
A Decision for emergency Situations
The accelerated approval process was reserved for urgent scenarios, with data assessed on critical points of quality, safety, and efficacy. Studies in calves demonstrated the vaccine’s effectiveness against EHDV Serotype 8, showing that vaccinated animals experienced milder symptoms if infected. This decision mirrors a similar move in 2024 for bluetongue vaccines, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding livestock health.
| Key Points About Hepizovac |
|——————————–|
| Target Virus: EHDV Serotype 8 |
| Approval status: Accelerated for emergency use |
| Target Animals: Cattle |
| Vaccination Schedule: Two doses, three weeks apart |
| Common Side Effect: Swelling at injection site |
The introduction of Hepizovac marks a significant step in combating Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease, offering hope for farmers and livestock owners. as the virus continues to pose a threat in neighboring regions,this vaccine ensures that the Netherlands is better equipped to handle potential outbreaks.
For more information on EHDV and its impact on livestock, visit The Pirbright Institute.
Breakthrough in Livestock Health: First vaccine for Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease Accelerated for Use
In a landmark move for animal health, the first vaccine against the Epizootic haemorrhagic Disease virus (EHDV) has been fast-tracked for use. The vaccine, named Hepizovac, developed by CZ Vaccines, received accelerated approval under a “decision to permission for use” decree issued by the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN). This decision follows a positive evaluation by the Veterinary Medicines Office of the Agency for the Evaluation of Medicines (CBG) and the Veterinary Medicines Admission Committee (CTD).
Understanding the Virus: EHDV and Its Impact
Senior Editor: Dr. Martinez, could you start by explaining what makes EHDV such a notable concern for livestock?
Dr. Julia Martinez: Certainly.The Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease virus is a serious threat to livestock, particularly cattle and wild deer. It’s transmitted by Culicoides midges, much like the bluetongue virus, which many farmers are already familiar with. While EHDV doesn’t typically affect sheep or goats, it can cause severe symptoms in cattle, including fever, lethargy, and even hemorrhagic conditions. What’s particularly concerning is its rapid spread in neighboring regions, which prompted the Dutch government to take proactive measures.
how Hepizovac Works: A Closer Look
Senior Editor: Can you walk us through how Hepizovac works to protect animals from EHDV?
Dr. Julia Martinez: Absolutely. Hepizovac contains an inactivated EHD virus Serotype 8, which is the strain currently prevalent in France. The inactivated virus cannot cause illness, but it does stimulate the animal’s immune system to produce antibodies. This means that if the animal is later exposed to the live virus, its immune system can quickly neutralize the threat, preventing or considerably reducing the severity of the disease. It’s a highly effective approach to vaccination.
Vaccination Protocol and Safety
Senior Editor: What does the vaccination process look like,and are there any side effects farmers should be aware of?
Dr. Julia Martinez: The vaccination process involves two doses,administered three weeks apart. Full protection is achieved approximately three weeks after the second dose. Farmers are advised to consult their veterinarians to ensure proper management of the vaccine. As for side effects, the most common one is mild swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own without any intervention. It’s a small price to pay for the protection it offers.
emergency Approval: A Necessary Step
Senior editor: Why was it necessary to fast-track Hepizovac’s approval?
Dr. Julia Martinez: The accelerated approval process was reserved for urgent scenarios, especially given the virus’s rapid spread in neighboring countries. Although EHDV had not yet been detected in the Netherlands at the time of approval, the government recognized the need to be prepared. The data assessed during the approval process focused on critical points of quality, safety, and efficacy. Studies in calves demonstrated that vaccinated animals experienced milder symptoms if infected, which was a key factor in the decision. This approach mirrors the fast-tracking of bluetongue vaccines in 2024, highlighting the government’s commitment to safeguarding livestock health.
What This Means for Farmers
Senior Editor: How does the introduction of Hepizovac impact farmers and livestock owners?
Dr. Julia Martinez: The introduction of hepizovac is a game-changer for farmers.It provides a powerful tool to protect their cattle from a possibly devastating disease. Given the virus’s presence in neighboring regions, this vaccine ensures that the Netherlands is better equipped to handle potential outbreaks. It’s a significant step forward in ensuring the health and productivity of livestock, which is vital for the agricultural sector.
Conclusion
Senior Editor: Dr.Martinez, thank you for shedding light on this significant progress. to summarize, Hepizovac represents a major breakthrough in combating Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease. Its accelerated approval underscores the urgency of the situation and the government’s commitment to protecting livestock. For farmers, this vaccine offers hope and a proactive solution to safeguard their cattle. We’ll continue to monitor its implementation and impact closely.
