The maker of the bluetongue virus vaccine Bultavo 3 is receiving a high level of enquiries around the availability and use of the vaccine from Irish vets.

Boehringer Ingelheim told the Irish Farmers Journal that the level of enquiries is reflective of industry concerns about the potential spread of the virus in Ireland this year.

Wholesalers and vets must obtain a Control on Animal Vaccines Regulations licence from the Department of Agriculture before they can order supplies of the vaccine.

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Bultavo 3 is injected subcutaneously in sheep and intramuscularly in cattle. For initial protection, one shot is needed in sheep. In cattle, two shots are required (spaced three weeks apart), Boehringer Ingelheim advised. “Decisions around whether and when to vaccinate should be based on a farm level risk assessment.

“We advise that vaccination is completed ahead of the start of any vector season (typically April/May) as this is when the risk of transmission increases,” the company said.