A larger multi-dose bottle of Gletvax 6, the vaccine against E coli and clostridial scours, has been introduced by Zoetis to make it “more convenient to protect large numbers of piglets”.
“The vaccine is now available in a 20-dose bottle and, like the 10-dose version already available in the UK, comes in a flexible plastic bottle for ease of handling and reduced risk of breakage,” said the company.
“Gletvax 6 is an E coli and Clostridium perfringens Type B, C and D vaccine. Vaccinating sows and gilts with Gletvax 6 protects their piglets against E coli neonatal colibacillosis and C perfringens necrotising infectious enteritis.
“Primary vaccination involves two doses, with the second dose given two weeks before expected farrowing. The piglets then receive protective immunity with the first intake of colostrum, making good neonatal care essential.”
Zoetis added that the choice of 10-dose and 20-dose bottles provides flexibility for all herd sizes and for weekly and batch-farrowing systems.
“Additionally,” they said, “the POM-VPS licence helps to ensure that pig producers can benefit from the vaccine from a range of suppliers.”