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Boehringer Ingelheim's Avian Flu Vaccines Receive EU CVMP Approval

Key highlights
  • EMA's CVMP approved VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 and VAXXINACT® H5 vaccines for H5 avian flu.
  • VAXXITEK® is the first trivalent vaccine for Marek’s, IBD, and H5 avian flu.
  • VAXXINACT® H5 is an inactivated vaccine for chickens, turkeys, and ducks.
  • DIVA technology in vaccines aids in distinguishing vaccinated from infected animals.

EU CVMP Approval

The European Medicines Agency's Committee for Veterinary Medicinal Products (CVMP) has given positive opinions for Boehringer Ingelheim's VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 and VAXXINACT® H5 vaccines. These vaccines target the highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza virus, which is causing outbreaks across Europe.

Vaccine Details

VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is the first trivalent vaccine providing protection against Marek’s disease, Infectious Bursal Disease, and H5 avian influenza in a single dose for chickens and turkeys. VAXXINACT® H5 is an inactivated vaccine designed to protect chickens, turkeys, and ducks against the H5 virus subtype.

Outbreak Preparedness

Avian influenza is a highly contagious disease affecting both domestic and wild birds, with the H5 strain being particularly prevalent. The disease leads to significant economic losses due to the culling of birds and trade restrictions. Innovative vaccine solutions like VAXXITEK® and VAXXINACT® are crucial for preventing and managing outbreaks.

DIVA Technology

Both vaccines incorporate DIVA (Differentiate Infected from Vaccinated Animals) technology, which helps distinguish between immune responses from vaccination and infection. This feature is essential for monitoring disease outbreaks and reducing trade restrictions, ensuring confidence in the safety of traded animal products.

Global Impact

Since 2021, the H5 avian influenza has caused widespread outbreaks globally, affecting regions like Latin America and Antarctica. The economic impact has been severe, disrupting poultry and egg availability and imposing trade restrictions. The European Commission is expected to decide on marketing authorizations under exceptional circumstances soon.