February 29, 2012

Pfizer launches new vaccine option against PRRS

Pfizer Animal Health has released a modified-live vaccine for growing pigs to combat against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) respiratory diseases.

Pfizer Animal Health's research and development team created unique cell lines, which were able to express a newly discovered key receptor protein for the PRRS virus (PRRS). This was pivotal in bringing Fostera PRRS to the pork industry.

"With more than half of weaning-age PRRS-negative pigs becoming infected before going to market, this innovative vaccine option helps growing pigs defend themselves against a PRRS challenge," says Steve Sornsen, DVM, MS, senior director, Veterinary Business Solutions at Pfizer Animal Health.

A challenge study demonstrated that Fostera PRRS, which is the first and only PRRS vaccine to earn the label claim aid in prevention of PRRS respiratory disease, reduced lung lesions by 84% and reduced overall respiratory clinical signs by 80%. Additionally, results showed vaccination with Fostera PRRS improved average daily gain by 2.5 times compared to pigs in the placebo group.

"Fostera PRRS helps optimise performance by minimizing the adverse affects of a subsequent PRRS challenge, thereby allowing growing pigs to maximise their post-challenge weight gain," says Doug King, DVM, senior veterinarian at Pfizer Animal Health.

Fostera PRRS is the second product to launch under the Fostera brand name and is supported by in-field support, resources and diagnostics to help veterinarians and producers tackle this critical disease challenge.