Sheep producers to face abortion vaccine shortages

Sheep producers look set to face another year of disrupted abortion vaccine supply following damage to the latest batch of Toxovax vaccine.

Supplies of the Toxovax sheep toxoplasmosis vaccine will now be limited until mid-September after a freak event damaged a portion of the latest batch of product during shipment to the UK.

MSD Animal Health says advance orders for the vaccine have already been fulfilled, with supply expected to resume after the end of summer. Those that have yet to order necessary supplies could face a problem.

However, the vaccine can be used up until three weeks prior to tupping, so many sheep producers should still be able to vaccinate their ewes before the peak autumn breeding season, the company says. Supplies are expected to gradually become available from mid-September.

Last season’s shortage created concerns from farmers and vets over increased abortion levels – producers worried about the risk of toxoplasmosis should discuss their flock situation with their vet.

Early breeders unable to secure vaccine supplies in time may consider the medication of pregnant ewe feed under vet prescription. For further information, sheep farmers should consult their vet.

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