Avian influenza vaccination: why it should not be a barrier to safe trade
With over 500 million birds lost to avian influenza worldwide, its devastating impact extends beyond animals, threatening livelihoods, food security and public health.
Avian influenza vaccination should be considered as part of a broader disease prevention and control strategy. This must include other provisions, such as biosecurity measures, disease surveillance for early detection, rapid response to outbreaks and a well-planned exit strategy. Vaccination can be a temporary measure to better control the disease situation. National Veterinary Authorities are charged with the decision to vaccinate based on a risk-evaluation, which depends on several factors and involves varied responsibilities, including:
The availability of high quality and reliable registered vaccines that meet WOAH international standards and remain effective against circulating strains. Vaccine composition must be under constant review to respond to changing circumstances and epidemiology.