Footrot vaccine permit a great first step

The Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) has welcomed the news that a new strain specific footrot vaccine has been allowed into the State.

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) last week issued an emergency permit to Treidlia Biovet for the use and supply of Custom Footrot R-Pilus Vaccine for a period of six months (January 23 to July 30).

TFGA President Wayne Johnston said that the decision was a great first step for the state’s farmers.

“Virulent footrot is the most serious disease facing Tasmanian producers. It is more costly than OJD, lice parasites and flies,’’ Mr Johnston said.

“The TFGA has been working with Treidlia Biovet, and lobbying state and federal government ministers, in anticipation of this decision. We have also provided extra information to the APVMA to help bring the permit to fruition.”

Footrot is present in nearly every state in Australia, but Tasmania’s climate and irrigation practices create ideal conditions for it to spread within and between flocks.

Since the previous footrot vaccine, Coopers’ Footvax, was banned from use in Australia in 2008, sheep owners have had nothing to assist them with the control and eradication of the disease. The only preventative practices that have been available are foot paring/foot bathing, or antibiotic treatment under specific conditions.

“Many farmers have chosen to sell entire flocks, rather than see the sheep suffer. They now finally have a fighting chance at eradicating this scourge from their properties,’’ Mr Johnston said.

He emphasised that, given the prevalence of the disease in Tasmania, the TFGA would continue to lobby at a state and federal level for a minor use permit for the vaccine because no relevant registered product currently exists in Australia.

“A minor use permit would help provide the kind of certainty that our sheep producers need to start rebuilding flocks within the State.”

The TFGA encourages anyone seeking further information on the vaccination program to contact their veterinary provider, or visit www.sheepconnecttas.com.au
TFGA President Wayne Johnston