Kenya Debuts Groundbreaking Three — in-One Vaccine to Combat Small Ruminant Diseases. Diani, Kenya – A pioneering three-in-one vaccine has been introduced in Kenya, designed to safeguard the country’s sheep and goat herds against three of the most prevalent and devastating diseases affecting livestock. This innovative vaccine, the first of its kind, offers protection against Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP), Sheep and Goat Pox (SGP), and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) with a single dose.
The vaccine was unveiled at the 60th Kenya Veterinary Association Congress and was developed by Jordan Bio-Industries Center (JOVAC) as part of an initiative led by the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed). It is part of the Veterinary Innovations Transforming Animal Health and Livelihoods (VITAL) project, which aims to enhance the health and productivity of small ruminants in Kenya. CCPP, a common disease among goats, can result in significant financial losses for farmers, while SGP and PPR can decimate herds, with PPR being a target of a global eradication campaign since 2015.
The vaccine’s development is a significant step forward in disease prevention and has the potential to save Kenyan farmers an estimated KSh 260,000 annually.
The product utilizes advanced vaccine technology, including a novel stabilizer and a live vaccine for CCPP, providing greater efficacy than traditional vaccines.
The vaccine will be administered for the first time in Kenya at a farm in Kwale county on Saturday, April 25, marking World Veterinary Day.
The Kenyan government has allocated substantial resources to ensure the vaccine’s availability and effectiveness, aiming to create a robust ecosystem that supports the health and productivity of small ruminants.
The launch has been welcomed by farmers and veterinary associations as a significant advancement in livestock health management.
The VITAL project has received support from various stakeholders, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Commission, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), contributing to the establishment of a multi-vaccine manufacturing site in South Africa, enhancing Africa’s vaccine production capacity.
As Kenya moves forward with the rollout of this groundbreaking vaccine, the potential benefits extend beyond national borders, offering hope for improved livestock health and economic stability across the continent.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: africa
Source: SG Editor
