Medgene launches US’s first vaccine for tick-borne Theileria orientalis Ikeda in cattle

Medgene has introduced the first prescription vaccine in the US targeting Theileria orientalis Ikeda, a parasite causing bovine infectious anaemia, amid rising concerns over its herd health impact and the spread of Asian longhorned ticks.

Medgene said it has begun offering what it described as the first prescription platform vaccine in the US aimed at Theileria orientalis Ikeda, a tick-borne parasite that can cause bovine infectious anaemia. The South Dakota company said the product is intended for use by veterinarians and is given as a two-dose series.

The announcement comes as veterinary and university sources have continued to flag Theileria as an emerging herd health issue. Cornell University has said infected cattle can remain carriers for life and that the disease can be hard to contain once it is established in a herd. The university’s recent reporting also noted that the Ikeda genotype is the most severe form seen in the US and that there is still no approved treatment or vaccine for food animals.

Medgene said the vaccine is designed to interrupt two stages of the parasite’s lifecycle and to help veterinarians respond as Asian longhorned ticks continue to expand their range. The company also said potency and efficacy for the prescription platform biologic have not been established, and that the product is available only on veterinary prescription.

Image Source: Medgene