GovWire

Defras Secretary of State has permitted the use of 3 unauthorised bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccines within the United Kingdom, subject to licence.

Unlike the authorised vaccines for other BTV serotypes, the BTV-3 vaccines claim to reduce viraemia rather than prevent it. This means they may not prevent animals from being infected or infectious, but (depending on the vaccine) their claims include reduction or prevention of clinical signs experienced or mortality.

Veterinarians should read the advisory note before prescribing any BTV-3 vaccine.

As this is the first time that Defra has used this power, the UK Chief Veterinary Officer asks all veterinarians to record all vaccine use and inform relevant authorities of any adverse effects.

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