The UK is set to strengthen vaccine supply for animals, with poultry vaccines highlighted as vital for protecting food safety, public health and the environment.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has issued a new statement of intent warning that current “just-in-time” vaccine supply leaves the country exposed to shortages and disease risks. Instead, it calls for a more resilient “just-in-case” approach.
Concerns have grown in recent years over limited supplies of existing vaccines and slow progress in developing new ones. Poultry vaccines are seen as especially critical in reducing salmonella and safeguarding food security, while vaccines also protect pets, horses and livestock.
The VMD strategy outlines four priorities: closer partnerships across the sector, improving supply and uptake, driving innovation, and reviewing manufacturing. A five-year action plan will be published within 12 months.
Baroness Hayman said vaccines are essential to both animal and human health: “To protect our animals, our economy and our food system, we must act now to secure supply and prepare for the future.”
Welcoming the framework, NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “The NFU welcomes this important initiative from the VMD and looks forward to contributing to its delivery.
“Vaccines are a vital tool for farmers in maintaining the health and welfare of their animals and protecting food security.”