Ceva Animal Health has announced that the enzootic abortion of ewes (EAE) vaccine, CevacÒ Chlamydia, will not be available as anticipated in September for the main 2024 vaccination season.
There was initially a gap in supply of Cevac Chlamydia between June and August due to a batch being out of specification.
Ceva Animal Health submitted an Out of Specification request to release the vaccine but was unsuccessful.
The next delivery of the vaccine was anticipated at the end of August, however this has been delayed until October, and there is no certainty of this delivery.
Ceva Animal Health, the manufacturer of the EAE vaccine, said it understands the significance of vaccinations in maintaining the health and welfare of livestock and said it “deeply regrets any inconvenience caused to its valued sheep farmers this year”.
The company said its primary goal has always been to ensure a stable and sufficient supply of vaccine and has worked hard to resolve this challenge, including making the request for an Out of Specification release.
A ‘complex process’
Vice president for Northern Europe (including the UK) at Ceva Animal Health, Roy Geary, said:
“The manufacturing of vaccines is a complex process that involves stringent quality control measures and adherence to regulatory guidelines.
“There have been unforeseen manufacturing issues at our production facilities, which have temporarily affected the ability to meet the demands of the UK sheep market within the main seasonal vaccination period for EAE.
“As a responsible provider, we are actively addressing these issues to minimise the impact on customers.”
Geary said Ceva is recommending that vets and farmers follow the advice published on July 24, 2024, from the Sheep Vet Society and Sheep Antibiotic Guardian Group (SAGG).”
