February 25, 2008

UK cattle producers urged to register for bluetongue vaccines
 

UK veterinarians have urged cattle farmers to register interest in bluetongue vaccination with their vet to ensure available stocks for them, and that complete vaccination is necessary and important.

Veterinarian Chris Lewis said although the first doses of vaccine will not be available until May, farmers should contact their vet and register the amount of doses they would need.

The aim is to achieve at least 80 percent of vaccination, although Lewis stressed on the importance of vaccinating all of the animals.

Lewis said sheep farms suffered the most losses in northern Europe, but cattle are just as important as they replicate the virus a lot more and act as reservoirs of infection.

UK farmers must take the opportunity to protect their livestock before the disease becomes widespread, said Lewis.

In addition, British Vet Association president Nick Blayney said vaccines must be administered quickly before the spread of the disease.