Medgene has introduced the first cattle vaccine targeting Theileria orientalis Ikeda, a tick-borne parasite that can cause bovine infectious anemia.
The parasite has spread as Asian longhorned ticks have expanded their range in the U.S. In addition to bovine infectious anemia, Theileria can also cause fever, jaundice, reduced milk production, abortion and death. Young calves and pregnant heifers can be particularly affected. USDA reports the disease can cause mortality rates of up to 50% in infected cattle.
The South Dakota-based company said the vaccine is administered as an initial dose followed by a booster and is available by veterinary prescription. Medgene notes that potency and efficacy of prescription platform biologics have not been established.
