Registered Name Vibrovax Vaccine Composition Formalin killed suspension of two biotypes of Campylobacter (Vibrio) fetus subsp. venerealis, i.e. biotype venerealis and biotype intermedius, with a mineral oil adjuvant. The vaccine contains 8 mg dry weight equivalent of organisms per mL. Indications Prevention of infertility and abortion in beef and dairy cattle caused by Campylobacter fetus infection. Precautions Not suitable for the immunisation of sheep. Correct vaccination procedure in the field is important. Avoid carcass damage. Use recommended injection sites. Avoid injection of animals during wet weather or under dusty conditions, as far as possible. Sterilise syringes and needles immediately before use by boiling in water for ten minutes. Avoid use of strong disinfectants on apparatus. Inject subcutaneously only, using the shortest possible needle not exceeding 15 mm in length. Avoid secondary infection of injection sites. Maintain cleanliness at all times during vaccination. Take great care to avoid contamination of the vaccine, needle and internal parts of the syringe by contact with unsterile surfaces or unwashed hands. Keep needles sharp and clean and replace frequently. Clean the proposed site of inoculation on the animal's skin by swabbing with cotton wool soaked in an antiseptic solution, such as methylated spirits. It is important that the vaccine is kept properly mixed before and during use. Disposal. Dispose of empty containers by wrapping in paper and putting in garbage. Discarded needles should be immediately placed into a designated and appropriately labelled sharps container. Withholding Periods Nil. Adverse Reactions As this is an oily adjuvant vaccine, there will be swelling at the site of vaccination, but this will gradually disappear. Dosage and Administration Adult cows, heifers more than 18 months old. Previously unvaccinated animals should be given a single dose of 5 mL. Thereafter give either one 5 mL dose every two years or one 2 mL dose annually. Vaccinate animals about four to six weeks before the commencement of mating. Heifers less than 18 months old. Two 5 mL doses, the second at least four weeks after the first. Time vaccination so that the second dose is given about four to six weeks before the commencement of mating. Bulls. Two 5 mL doses, the second at least four weeks after the first; then one 5 mL dose annually. Regular vaccination of bulls is an important means of controlling the disease. Other control measures such as segregation of infected cattle, use of young, clean bulls and culling of barren cows should also be practised.
