The Royal Dutch Society for Veterinary Medicine (KNMvD), the professional organization of veterinarians, has created a special open vacancy bank to vaccinate sheep and cattle against bluetongue as quickly as possible. Retired veterinarians and fellow veterinarians from other species are being called upon to report.
On Friday, outgoing Agriculture Minister Piet Adema announced that a vaccine is available against bluetongue virus type 3, produced by the Spanish pharmaceutical company Syva. 1 million doses of the vaccine will be available within a few days to a week and another 1 million doses two weeks later. According to the KNMvD, it is now important to get started with the vaccination. Veterinarians who want to roll up their sleeves can register via a special form on the website. Veterinary practices can also post vacancies here for the bluetongue vaccination.
The service is free for both KNMvD members and non-members. The KNMvD warns that the midge season, the period when the flies that spread the virus are active, is just around the corner. ‘It is important that the animals are vaccinated as quickly as possible. The vaccine that has now been authorized has had accelerated approval. Authorization for use of the vaccine will only be given once sufficient information is available about its efficacy, safety and quality.’
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, it is up to the producer to monitor whether things are going well and whether the vaccine provides sufficient protection in practice and prevents the spread of bluetongue. It is mandatory to report any side effects to the Veterinary Medicines Agency. The vaccine is being further developed. The long-term effect is also examined.
