Merial steps up campaign to help farmers fight scours

Beef and dairy farmers stand to reap the benefits as Merial Animal Health steps up its campaign against scours – the number one cause of neonatal calf deaths.

As a major initiative to help farmers cut calf deaths and reduce losses, the company's calf scour vaccine, Trivacton® 6, is now available, not only through veterinary surgeons, but also obtainable without veterinary prescription through Specially Qualified Persons (SQPs) within agricultural stores.

Surveys have shown that outbreaks of neonatal calf scours can cost producers up to £155 per calf at risk – so prevention can be a more cost-effective option in many cases.

Tried and tested across Europe since 1993, Trivacton 6®, provides the broadest protection available against the common causes of scours.

It is the only vaccine that stimulates the production of antibodies to Rotavirus, Coronavirus and four strains of E.Coli. Cows that have been vaccinated then pass these antibodies on to their newborn calves through the colostrum, providing vital protection against these key diseases during the calf's most vulnerable period.

Merial are placing huge emphasis on the responsible training and support available for SQPs and their farming customers. The free training sessions and information guides being provided to SQPs by Merial highlight the key causes of the disease, the symptoms to look out for and what can be done to reduce risks by improving hygiene, reducing stress, focusing on nutrition and, most importantly, ensuring the calves obtain enough good quality colostrum.

"This should provide SQPs with the platform to responsibly advise farmers on how to protect their calves against this costly multi-factorial disease" said Technical Manager, Fiona MacGillivray.

"Many of these SQPs have extensive experience in selling electrolyte solutions to farmers, but now they are in a position to offer more comprehensive, preventative advice. They can have an informed discussion with producers to find out exactly what is happening on the farm and whether Trivacton® 6 may be appropriate. In some cases it may be necessary to call in other advisors, such as veterinary surgeons, in order to find a solution to the problems."

Merial is also working closely with animal health medicine suppliers around the country to help them organise farmer meetings. These meetings will provide practical advice on how to reduce calf scours on the farm, including how vaccination could play a role.

For further information on Trivacton® 6, please contact Merial Animal Health Ltd on 0800 592699 or your local animal health medicines supplier for further details.