There will be an ongoing shortage of the enzootic abortion of ewes (EAE) vaccine, Cevac Chlamydia, until October, as confirmed by Ceva Animal Health, the manufacturer of the vaccine. The vaccine will not be available as expected for the main 2024 vaccination season

The initial shortage of Cevac Chlamydia occurred between June and August due to a batch failing to meet specifications. Ceva Animal Health requested an 'out of specification' release for the vaccine, but this was unsuccessful.

While the next shipment of the vaccine was expected by the end of August, the company has now confirmed that it has been postponed until October. They expressed ‘deep regret for any inconvenience caused to their valued sheep farmers this year’.

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EAE, caused by the bacteria chlamydia abortus, accounts for 52% of sheep abortions in the UK.

Roy Geary, vice president at Ceva Animal Health, stated: “The manufacturing of vaccines is a complex process that involves stringent quality control measures and adherence to regulatory guidelines.

"There have been unforeseen manufacturing issues at our production facilities, which have temporarily affected the ability to meet the demands of the UK sheep market within the main seasonal vaccination period for EAE.

"As a responsible provider, we are actively addressing these issues to minimise the impact on customers.”

Ceva Animal Health has advised vets and farmers to refer to the latest EAE guidance issued by the Sheep Vet Society and the Sheep Antibiotic Guardian Group: CLICK HERE