-VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is a new trivalent vaccine for poultry that offers protection against Marek’s disease, Infectious Bursal Disease and H5 avian influenza in just one shot.
- H5 avian influenza is a highly contagious and notifiable zoonotic disease that is currently having a heavy impact on the poultry industry, farmers, and international trade worldwide.
-Administration at the hatchery secures early protection for chicks.
By ; Bakinam Khaled
With VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5, Boehringer Ingelheim is expanding its proven VAXXITEK® range with a new vaccine that protects against three severe poultry diseases: Marek’s disease, Infectious Bursal Disease, and H5 avian influenza. The vaccine will first launch in Egypt in February 2025.
Marek's disease is a viral disease in chickens that can cause tumors, paralysis, and often death. It is widespread and can lead to significant losses in poultry farms. Infectious Bursal Disease, also known as Gumboro disease, is another viral disease in chickens that causes clinical symptoms like diarrhea and dehydration resulting in significant productivity losses in poultry farms. Both diseases target the immune system, making the birds more susceptible to other infections. Vaccination against Marek’s disease and Gumboro is standard practice in most poultry farms globally.
Avian influenza, mostly known as avian flu or bird flu, is a highly contagious disease affecting domestic and wild birds. H5 is one of the most prevalent avian influenza virus strains and endemic in several countries where it is present all year-round. In these countries, vaccination is a necessary tool to further prevent the spread of the disease. Due to the continuous evolution of the virus and development of many variants, the need for innovative vaccine solutions to manage avian flu remains urgent.
Supporting poultry producers through technology and ease of use
“The launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is another step forward in avian influenza prevention regarding both coverage and convenience”, says Taoufik Rawi, Head of Franchise, Poultry, at Boehringer Ingelheim. “Our customers must keep their flocks thriving and protect their chickens from health threats. We help them through our new three-in-one vaccine which is quick and effective: It combines broad protection against the most prevalent H5 avian influenza clades and two major poultry diseases in just one shot.”
A clade is a group of viral strains that share a common ancestor. While traditional bird flu vaccines often only cover one clade at a time, Boehringer Ingelheim leveraged a technology called COBRA (Computationally Optimised Broadly Reactive Antigen) to create a unique antigen sequence which provides protection against the most prevalent and infectious H5 clades.
Dr. David Swayne, Former Laboratory Director at USDA and Adjunct Professor at the University of Georgia, USA, commented on the launch of the vaccination saying: “The evolution of H5 avian influenza continues to pose a significant challenge for poultry health worldwide. Advancements in disease management strategies, including vaccination, play a crucial role in helping protect poultry flocks from its impact."
VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is administered directly at the hatchery, providing early protection for chicks, avoiding any immunity gap. This refers to the potential gap between the decrease of maternal antibodies in the chicks and the raise of active immunity due to vaccination. Just like Boehringer’s other avian influenza vaccines, VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is a DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) vaccine. This is crucial to distinguish between vaccinated and naturally infected birds in case of a disease outbreak.
Waleed El Mashak, Head of Animal Health India, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (IMETA) at Boehringer Ingelheim, says: “As a region heavily impacted by avian influenza, the launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 represents a critical advancement for poultry farmers across IMETA. The launch of the vaccine in Egypt for the first time globally is a testament to Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to supporting sustainable poultry farming in the region.”
Magdy Hassan, President of the Egyptian Veterinary Syndicate said: “The introduction of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 in Egypt marks a significant milestone, offering poultry farmers a powerful solution to enhance flock immunity and protect against major diseases, including H5 avian influenza. This launch represents a pivotal step in strengthening poultry production and ensuring sustainable growth opportunities for the industry.”
“As a leader in animal health, it is our responsibility to support our customers in raising and caring for their poultry in a healthy, sustainable, and financially viable way”, adds Mahmoud El Mahdy, Country Head of Animal Health, North, East, and West Africa Region, Boehringer Ingelheim. “The launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 in Egypt is a significant milestone, bringing in advanced, scientifically backed solution to a country where poultry farming is both a cornerstone of food security and a major economic driver.”
El Mahdy added: “The introduction of this vaccine represents a game-changing approach to disease control, helping the poultry market stability and secure international trade opportunities. Boehringer Ingelheim remains committed to providing cutting-edge innovations that strengthen Egypt’s poultry industry and contribute towad sustainable food production.”
