August 31, 2007

Company achieves world-first in antibody treatment for scours

New Zealand calves are fighting scours with antibodies from Japanese chickens. 

Independent Veterinary Supplies, a New Zealand company, has gained certification from New Zealand's Food Safety Authority for its Rotagen Combo product.

The product is made from a combination of antibodies produced in the eggs of Japanese hens that have been vaccinated with antigens for common calf scours viruses. These included rotavirus, E. coli and salmonella.

The antibodies, in the form of a milk drink or warm water drench, provides a preventive aid and treatment for common viruses that cause neonatal scours in calves.

Scours are a common cause of calf death and poor development.

This is the first time the world has seen an antibody treatment for scours has been registered as an animal remedy, Lindsay Chitty, general manager of Independent Veterinary Supplies said.