New swine flu vaccine against three virus subtypes

IDT Biologika has developed and is marketing the first swine influenza vaccine - Respiporc Flu3 - registered for protection against the three most clinically significant subtypes of the virus, H1N1, H3N2 and H1N2.

Swine flu can cause severe respiratory problems and, in sows, serious reproductive disorders, including abortions. This disease is estimated to cost pig producers more than EUR25 (US$33.99) per sow annually.

However, the new vaccine contains a well-tolerated adjuvant and can therefore be administered to sows at all stages of pregnancy, where it has a stabilising effect on reproduction. It can also be given to gilts and finishing pigs.

Sows are given two, 2ml injections at three-week intervals, followed by a booster during each gestation or subsequent lactations. This provides immunity for up to six months, depending on the animal's age at first vaccination. Piglets will receive protection via the sow's colostrum if the booster is given two weeks before farrowing.

IDT Biologika, based in Dessau-Rosslau, Germany, has obtained European-wide marketing authorisation through the centralised registration procedure and initially will be selling Respiporc Flu3 in Germany, Austria and Poland. Other countries will follow subsequently.

IDT's new trivalent vaccine is also being marketed under license in selected European countries under a different trade name.