South Dakota Company to Test H5N1 Vaccine

South Dakota-based animal health vaccine manufacturer Medgene says it has received approval from the Department of Agriculture to commence testing a vaccine for H5N1 in cattle.

"This is great news for us, for the CVB (USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics) and more importantly, the dairy industry,” says Medgene Chief Operating Officer Tom Halbur. “Our technology is founded on being able to respond to disease challenges faster. Our protocol satisfies the states requirements and we're looking forward to doing our part in supporting both the necessary regulatory policies and the needs of the dairy industry."

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced last week that testing for high path avian influenza, or H5N1, in cattle had been approved. Vilsack said field trials would be done in hopes of moving forward for safe and effective use of the vaccine.

Progressive Farmer reports the CVB Notice allows for vaccine studies to be conducted outside of containment facilities and has the potential to accelerate agency licensure of H5N1 vaccines in dairy cows.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com