Pfizer subsidiary receives EU license for bluetongue vaccines

With effect from January 15, 2010, Fort Dodge Animal Health, a part of Pfizer Animal Health, has been awarded an EU Licence and marketing authorisation for its range of Zulvac vaccines against serotype 8 Bluetongue (BTV).

The vaccines are Zulvac 8 Bovis, indicated for use in cattle, and Zulvac 8 Ovis for use in sheep.

Fort Dodge, is only the second company to gain EU approval for its serotype 8 BTV vaccines. The products are already in use in countries including the UK, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic and Switzerland.

The EU license supersedes existing national temporary permits, giving veterinary surgeons in all member states full access to the Zulvac 8 range, subject to the national BTV policies in place in each country.

Commenting on the award of the EU License, Marc Snacken, Business Manager Livestock, Fort Dodge Europe, Africa and Middle East, said, ''The strong focus on vaccination against Bluetongue by national governments and farmers during 2009 has contributed to a significant reduction in cases of the disease, providing a welcome boost for the livestock industry during a difficult economic time.''