First vaccine for cryptosporidiosis gets approval

The new vaccine has been given approval from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.

It is indicated for the active immunisation of pregnant heifers and cows to raise antibodies in colostrum against Gp40 of Cryptosporidium parvum.  

C. parvum is the most common cause of infectious scour in the UK, said Dr Kat Baxter-Smith, veterinary adviser with MSD Animal Health.

Significant impact on calves

Cryptosporidiosis is widespread on UK dairy and suckler cattle units and is prevalent throughout the year. 

The disease is mostly seen in calves 7-14 days of age, but can strike at anytime. 

Dr Baxter-Smith added: “Infection with the parasite causes blunting of the intestinal villi, reducing capacity for nutrient and water absorption. 

“This has a significant impact on a calf’s future productivity. 

“In a recent UK study, cryptosporidiosis in the first 16 days of life significantly reduced weight gain over a six month period, with severe disease calves weighing 34kg less on average than low disease calves. 

“This equated to a £161 reduction in the calf sale price.”

Protection from birth

Vaccinating pregnant heifers and cows with Bovilis Cryptium offers calves protection from birth at the start of colostrum feeding – when they are most vulnerable. 

Active immunisation raises antibodies in colostrum against C. parvum, which will help to reduce clinical signs (i.e. diarrhoea) when calves are fed this fortified colostrum.

The primary vaccination course is two doses (4-5 weeks apart, in the third trimester of pregnancy, to be completed at least three weeks before calving). 

Cattle that have had the primary vaccination course only need a single booster dose during subsequent pregnancies. 

Colostrum is key

“The protection of calves depends on adequate ingestion of colostrum and transition milk from vaccinated cows,” Dr Kat Baxter-Smith said.

“It is recommended that all calves are fed colostrum and transition milk during the first five days of life. 

“At least three litres of colostrum should be fed within the first six hours after birth,” added Dr Baxter-Smith.

Bovilis Cryptium can be administered to cattle during late pregnancy at the same time as the Bovilis Rotavec Corona vaccine. 

Bovilis Rotavec Corona boosts antibodies in colostrum for other important infectious scour pathogens; rotavirus, coronavirus and both E.coli F5 (K99) and F41. 

“Calves gain protection against these pathogens by drinking the fortified colostrum from their vaccinated mothers,” Dr Baxter-Smith added.

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Innovative vaccine

Philippe Houffschmitt, associate vice president of the global ruminant business at MSD Animal Health, commented:

“MSD Animal Health is proud to offer this innovative vaccine – a new, science-driven way to combat the devastating parasite C. parvum, which impacts Europe and the rest of the world.

“This novel vaccine offers preventive neonatal protection, which can help preserve cattle well-being from the earliest days of life, as well as help contribute to global food production and safety.”

Detailed conditions for the use of Bovilis Cryptium are described in the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC). 

Farmers interested in the new Bovilis Cryptium vaccine should contact their veterinary professional.

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