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Leptoshield 3

Leptoshield 3 is used for the routine immunisation of cattle against Leptospirosis caused by L. Hardjo, L. Pomona and L. Copenhageni.

Leptoshield 3 vaccine is prepared from formalin-killed cultures of Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo and L. interrogans serovars Pomona and Copenhageni.

It is adjuvanted with an aluminium salt to increase the level and duration of immunity. Thiomersal (0.1 mg/mL) is added as a preservative.

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  • Approved uses/Indications

    Leptoshield 3 vaccine is for the control of leptospirosis in cattle, and for prevention of urinary shedding and risk of human leptospiral infection by immunisation against Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo, Leptospira interrogans serovars Pomona and Copenhageni.

    For the prevention of risk of human leptospiral infection associated with shedding of Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar hardjo and Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona from the reproductive tract of cattle.

    For the protection against reproductive losses in cattle by protection of reproductive tract colonisation and placental and foetal infection with L. Hardjo.

  • Key Features

    Effective Prevention: Leptoshield 3 prevents reproductive tract colonisation and foetal infection. Leptoshield vaccine is effective in the presence of MDA. A 1991 study showed calves that were first vaccinated as early as 4 weeks of age, were fully protected against renal colonisation and urinary shedding when challenged with L. Hardjo 6 months later1.

    Safety Profile: Each batch of vaccine has been fully tested before issue, ensuring that it conforms to accepted standards of potency, sterility and safety. Trials using this vaccine strain of L. Hardjo have demonstrated high efficacy in the prevention of infection and shedding when vaccinated cattle are challenged1.

    Long lasting: Leptoshield 3 has a duration of immunity of at least 12 months.

    Unique label claims:

    • Early calf vaccination from 4 weeks of age
    • Prevention of reproductive tract colonisation and shedding
    • Prevention of foetal infection and reproductive losses
    • Proven to retain potency for at least 30 days after opening.
  • Packaging

    Leptoshield 3 is available in semi-rigid packs of 250mL and 500mL.

  • Dosage & Administration

    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. An annual booster must be given. This programme is applicable to dairy and beef herds.

    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.

    Introduced stock: In the absence of a known history of vaccination, dose twice at 4–6 week intervals.

    Booster doses: To maintain immunity, all animals in the herd, including steers and bulls, should be revaccinated annually against leptospirosis.

  • Precautions

    Some swelling usually develops at the site of vaccination, and may last for some months before gradually subsiding. On rare occasions, allergic shock reactions may occur. In these cases adrenaline should be administered.

    It is important that the vaccine is properly mixed before and during use. Shake the vaccine container at regular intervals to sustain mixing.

    Store at 2–8°C (refrigerate; do not freeze). Protect from light. This vaccine can be stored and used for up to 30 days after first opening. Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that can affect all domestic and wild animals. It is transmissible to man and is probably the most widespread zoonosis in the world.

    Withholding periods: Nil

  • Mandatories

    Zoetis Animal Health New Zealand Limited. Level 5, 8 Mahuhu Crescent, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. Tel: 0800 650 277, Fax: 0800 628 629. LEPTOSHIELD is a registered trade mark of Zoetis Inc. or its subsidiaries. ACVM Registration No.A7426. RVM; Available only under Veterinary Authorisation.

    References:

    1. Palit, A. et al.& The influence of maternal antibody and age of calves on effective vaccination against Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo. Aust. Vet. J. 68(9):299-303, 1991.
  • Contact Information

    For technical enquiries please phone Zoetis Technical Services on 0800 650 277.