New vaccine to prevent calf diarrhea is launched

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Boehringer Ingelheim is launching a vaccine for the prevention of calf diarrhea, or calf scour, (Fencovis) which offers passive immunity to calves through the cows' maternal colostrum.

Calf scour is a sign of an array of gastrointestinal diseases with infectious and noninfectious causes impacting unweaned newborn calves.¹ Because neonatal calves have immature immune systems and are incapable of producing their own antibodies, scour is difficult to manage. In fact, research from 2021 displayed that the incidence of diarrhea to be 18.5% and the most common disease seen in approximately 14,000 neonatal calves examined on 731 German dairy herds.²

Boehringer Ingelheim's new product is indicated for the active immunization of pregnant heifers and cows to promote the development of antibodies against rotavirus, coronavirus, and E. coli F5 (K99) adhesin, leading to the passive immunization of calves against neonatal diarrhea.¹ These antibodies have been shown to prevent diarrhea caused by rotavirus and E. coli F5 (K99) adhesin and decrease the incidence and severity of diarrhea caused by coronavirus, in calves fed with colostrum and milk from vaccinated cows. Additionally, viral shedding in calves infected by rotavirus and coronavirus was reduced by this vaccine.

According to Boehringer Ingelheim, the company offers a holistic lean method to cattle farming via its training and support services to help veterinarians enhance calf management and ensure optimal gut and immune health.

“Boehringer Ingelheim will provide guidance to veterinarians for the use of lean management tools to maximize the impact of Fencovis on the farm and help farmers produce healthier and more productive calves,” said Gerald Behrens, global head of ruminants at Boehringer Ingelheim, in a company press release.¹

After the latest registration studies, the new vaccine, which is a suspension for injection, has demonstrated unmatched protection using a non-oil adjuvant.¹ The product comes with flexible presentations including a single dose pack. It will become available in specific markets within the European Union and in the United Kingdom.

References

1. Boehringer Ingelheim launches Fencovis®, a new vaccine to prevent calf diarrhea. News release. News release. Boehringer Ingelheim. September 6, 2022. Accessed September 6, 2022. https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/animal-health/livestock/ruminants/vaccine-prevent-calf-diarrhea
2. Horst EA, Kvidera SK, Baumgard LH. Invited review: The influence of immune activation on transition cow health and performance-A critical evaluation of traditional dogmas. J Dairy Sci. 2021;104(8):8380-8410. doi: 10.3168/jds.2021-20330.