This week, the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) is highlighting the critical link between proactive livestock vaccination and the sustainability of farming.
Ahead of World Immunisation Week and World Animal Vaccination Day, NOAH states that livestock vaccination is a fundamental tool for safeguarding animal health and welfare, preventing potentially devastating and costly disease outbreaks.
Its new Livestock Vaccination Guideline (LVG) provides clear, practical advice to help farmers keep their sheep and dairy and beef cows healthy and productive.
By preventing disease, vaccination directly contributes to the economic viability and long-term success of agricultural businesses.
The importance of awareness events in preventing animal disease
World Immunisation Week and World Animal Vaccination Day play a crucial role in promoting global health by emphasising the importance of disease prevention in animals.
Animal vaccination not only protects their health and welfare but also helps prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases that can transfer to humans, such as rabies and avian influenza.
These observances serve as vital reminders of the need for consistent, science-based vaccination efforts to safeguard livestock, pets, and wildlife, ultimately supporting food security, economic stability, and public health.
By raising awareness and encouraging coordinated action, these global events help ensure healthier animals and safer communities around the world.
Healthy animals equal fewer antibiotics
In the guidelines, NOAH highlights that livestock vaccination plays a vital role in stopping disease before it starts.
This proactive approach significantly reduces the need for antibiotic treatments, supporting the long-term health and performance of herds and flocks whilst contributing to the responsible use of medicines in agriculture.
Livestock vaccination can secure the future of farms
By following the best practice vaccination guidance outlined in NOAH’s guideline, farmers can improve animal welfare, boost efficiency, and future-proof their farms against disease threats.
The LVG makes it simple to understand and implement effective livestock vaccination programmes in consultation with veterinary professionals.
Dawn Howard, NOAH Chief Executive, explained: “World Immunisation Week and World Animal Vaccination Day are crucial reminders that investing in preventative healthcare through vaccination is essential.
“Our Livestock Vaccination Guideline empowers farmers with the knowledge to protect their livestock and their livelihoods.”
She concluded: “By ensuring healthy animals, we not only improve their welfare but also reduce the need for antibiotics and build stronger, more secure farms for the future.”
Developing tailored and effective vaccination programmes
NOAH encourages all sheep, beef, and dairy farmers and veterinary surgeons, and animal health professionals to access the Livestock Vaccination Guideline and learn how best vaccination practices can contribute to healthy animals, reduced antibiotic use, and a stronger, more secure future for farms.
Consulting with their veterinary surgeon is a vital step in developing tailored and effective vaccination programmes.
