Bovine Tuberculosis Vaccine Enters Final Phase of Testing

Strategic Insights -

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed that the CattleBCG vaccine and its accompanying DIVA skin test are being tested on a large scale on commercial farms in England and Wales, marking a significant milestone in the fight against bovine tuberculosis (bTB). The vaccine, if successful, could provide farmers with an effective way to protect their herds and reduce transmission of the disease. According to official data, bTB costs England £100 million each year, with the wider farming industry shouldering an additional £50 million.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CattleBCG vaccine and DIVA skin test are being tested on commercial farms in England and Wales as part of Phase 3 trials.
  • Around 750 cattle will be involved in the study across at least 10 farms, assessing the vaccine's performance under real farm conditions.
  • The DIVA test allows scientists to tell the difference between infected and vaccinated cattle, a crucial breakthrough for disease control and trade compliance.
  • Dr Camille Szmaragd Harrison, lead TB scientist at APHA, emphasized the importance of close collaboration with farmers to guide the effective deployment of the vaccine.
  • The project's success depends on the support of farming industry experts, with hundreds of farmers expressing interest in participating in the trial.
  • The UK remains at the forefront of global vaccine development, with Christine Middlemiss, the country's chief veterinary officer, highlighting its success in this area.

Statistics:

  • bTB costs England £100 million each year, with the wider farming industry shouldering an additional £50 million.
  • In 2023/24, more than 60,000 cattle were slaughtered in England and Wales as part of control measures.
  • The CattleBCG vaccine and DIVA skin test have already demonstrated safety and compatibility in previous trials.
  • Around 750 cattle will be involved in the Phase 3 trials, spanning at least 10 farms.

Sources:

  • Byline: Glen Barclay, "A vaccine to protect cattle against bovine tuberculosis (bTB) has entered its final phase of testing, marking a major step towards tackling one of farming's most costly and persistent animal diseases..." (Source: The Guardian)
  • APHA press release: "CattleBCG Vaccine and DIVA Skin Test Enters Final Phase of Testing in England and Wales" (Source: Animal and Plant Health Agency)
  • Expert opinions by Dr Camille Szmaragd Harrison, lead TB scientist at APHA (Source: Animal and Plant Health Agency)
  • Statement by Christine Middlemiss, UK's chief veterinary officer (Source: The Guardian)