Ruminant Health & Welfare says all three main BTV-3 vaccine suppliers are working to bring additional stock into the country in response to exceptional demand.
Boehringer Ingelheim is expecting a significant delivery this week, which is due to move into wholesalers next week, with further European stock also being explored for import over the coming weeks. Forecasts are being upped for next year with monthly deliveries planned into next year.
Virbac has already brought in additional European Syvazul stock from Northern Ireland and Spain, with German stock expected shortly. This supply is already sold, but significant supplies of GB-labelled vaccine will be available in September and October.
Ceva is also expecting further Bluevac supplies from Europe within the next couple of weeks and updating forecasts for next year based on increased demand.
RH&W veterinary representative Fiona Lovatt from Flockhealth Ltd., says: “There is clearly very strong demand for BTV-3 vaccine and we know availability remains challenging in some areas, but all three manufacturers are working hard to bring further supplies into the country.
“Vaccination remains the best way to protect susceptible animals against bluetongue, so farmers should speak to their vet now about the most appropriate vaccination plan for their stock and continue to place orders even if vaccine is not immediately available.
“Those orders are important because they give veterinary practices, wholesalers and manufacturers a clearer picture of demand and help inform the sourcing and production of further supplies.
“We are continuing to work closely with vets, manufacturers and the wider industry through the Battle Bluetongue campaign with regular vaccine task force meetings to keep the supply situation under review and support farmers in protecting their animals.”
Further information
Find out more about bluetongue virus on the Battle Bluetongue hub.
If you have concerns or questions, contact the AHDB bluetongue virus helpline on: 0247 771 0386