The dose on all occasions is 2mL injected subcutaneously. Inject high on the side of the neck behind the ear.
Herd Vaccination: To begin a herd vaccination programme, all animals must be vaccinated and a second dose given 4–6 weeks later. Following this, an annual booster must be given. This programme is applicable to dairy, beef and deer herds and also sheep and goat flocks.
For protection against L. hardjo infection, the initial vaccination regimen or booster should be completed before the season of greatest risk of transmission of leptospires. In most temperate climates, the season of greatest risk is from the beginning of autumn through to the end of spring or early summer.The season of greatest risk seems to be related to the amount of surface water present in the environment and this is a reflection of the state of the water table. However, the presence of maternal antibodies and behavioural and management parameters may also influence the onset and duration of this transmission period.
Vaccination of Calves: Early vaccination of calves is advisable to protect against acute leptospirosis ("redwater") and to prevent renal colonisation and urinary shedding. Leptoshield has been shown to be efficacious in cattle in the presence of maternal antibody. Calves may therefore receive their first vaccination from 1 month of age. Two doses should be given 4–6 weeks apart.Calves less than 3 months of age at the time of the second vaccination should receive a single booster dose 6 months later. Calves greater than 3 months of age at the time of the second vaccination require an annual booster. Deer calves should commence a vaccination programme at 3 months of age.
Introduced Stock: In the absence of a known history of vaccination, dose twice at 4–6 week intervals.
Development of immunity: Detectable antibody levels develop 10 to 14 days after the second vaccination. The second dose of vaccine 4 to 6 weeks after the first is essential before a high level of immunity can develop. In cattle the L. borgpetersenii serovar hardjo component of Leptoshield has been demonstrated to induce a strong, sustained cell-mediated immune response against L. hardjo. A cell-mediated immune response is associated with protection against L. hardjo2,3.
Booster Doses: To maintain immunity, all animals in the herd, including steers and bulls, should be revaccinated annually against leptospirosis.
Single Doses: Single doses of the vaccine may be withdrawn from the pack using a sterilised hypodermic needle and syringe after disinfecting the stopper of the vaccine pack.
Contents must be left in outer package until immediately before use. Shake well before use and keep thoroughly mixed during use. Handle aseptically and store refrigerated and protected from light. When not in use during any given vaccination session, keep the vaccine out of direct sunlight and as cool as possible. Do not leave exposed to light or high temperatures for long periods. Ideally, place the vaccine pack into this original cardboard carton and place in either an esky with an icebrick or in a refrigerator. This product can be stored and used for up to 30 days after first opening.