AMTRA response to the Statement of Intent on UK Veterinary Vaccine Availability From the Veterinary Medicines Directorate

We’re pleased that the Veterinary Medicines Directorate has published the Statement of Intent on UK Veterinary Vaccine Availability. This introduces a strategic framework, designed with industry stakeholders, which has been underpinned by regulatory analysis, industry expertise, and stakeholder input. Veterinary vaccine availability is critical for animal disease resilience.

AMTRA is proud to have contributed to this strategic framework and looks forward to working with the VMD on a five-year multi-stakeholder UK action plan that will turn these ambitions into reality.

Find out more about the announcement: Government publishes framework to strengthen UK veterinary vaccine availability

AMTRA CEO, Stephen Dawson, says: “SQPs prescribe a range of POM-VPS vaccines, in particular in the sheep sector, which contribute significantly to animal health, to farm profitability, and to food supply and security. But repeated vaccine shortages at key times over many years have made meeting the existing need very difficult, limited scope to increase the usage, and risk damaging support for vaccination among farmers. Access to effective veterinary vaccines is vital to protect animal health and welfare, and therefore to One Health, food security and the economy.

“It is essential that the approach taken leads to better availability of existing vaccines. Timely and accurate communications around supply shortages, and promoting fair distribution are welcome initiatives, but sufficient and reliable supply is the primary desirable outcome in respect of existing vaccines. Changes to production and availability of existing vaccines that come from regulatory changes or new technologies will not happen overnight, but news of the action plan is very much welcomed and needed.”