Similar to human vaccines, animal vaccines are administered to prevent diseases from occurring in animals. Routinely vaccinating animals is often more affordable than paying for the treatment of sick animals, reduces transmission of microorganisms in the animal population, and reduces animal suffering. Pets are often given vaccines for infectious diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis. Livestock animals, such as turkeys, chickens and cattle, are vaccinated to protect against diseases such as rotavirus, E. coli, pinkeye and brucellosis.
The proper application of vaccines to animal populations has enhanced their health and welfare, and prolonged their life expectancies. The goal of a vaccination program is to prevent or reduce disease, and thereby promote optimal patient, herd and public health. Even though some formerly common diseases have now become uncommon, vaccination is still highly recommended because these serious disease agents continue to thrive in certain environments.
Types of Animal Vaccines
Animal vaccines are part of a broader category of animal medicines called veterinary biologics (VB). VB products work primarily through the stimulation of the immune system in order to prevent or treat diseases.
Veterinary biologics are regulated by the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB) in the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). AHI members in the veterinary biologics industry continue to work closely with the USDA and invest millions of dollars in the development of effective vaccines to advance the control and eradication of disease in animals.