Merck Animal Health has announced Porcilis Ileitis is now approved for multi-dose administration to vaccinate against ileitis caused by Lawsonia intracellularis. Previously approved to be given as one 2 mL dose at three weeks of age, the new license includes an option to administer two, 1 mL doses and to vaccinate as early as three days of age with a booster three weeks later.

"The new label claim gives veterinarians and swine producers the option to start vaccinating against ileitis at the time of piglet processing," says Jack Creel, DVM, associate director of swine technical services. "The timing also allows it to be administered at the same time as Circumvent PCV G2 or Circumvent PCVM G2 vaccines as recommended by a veterinarian."

Porcilis Ileitis received USDA approval in 2015 and was the first licensed injectable vaccine against the disease, which often causes subtle performance challenges across a herd due to its subclinical nature. Unlike live attenuated vaccines, this inactivated vaccine provides protection without interference that can be caused by antibiotic treatments, so it is not necessary to remove feed- or water-grade antibiotics during the vaccination period.

"Porcilis Ileitis has been a valuable tool to help producers better manage this disease. Now they have the option of a one- or two-dose protocol, with both offering long lasting, strong protection against ileitis," says Creel.

Porcilis Ileitis comes in 100 or 500 mL sizes and is ready-to-use with no mixing. To learn more about Porcilis Ileitis, visit the Merck Animal Health website.

Source: Merck Animal Health, which is solely responsible for the information provided, and wholly owns the information. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.