A new vaccine designed specifically for Australian dogs is offering hope to pet owners and veterinarians battling the growing threat of leptospirosis.
MSD Animal Health has announced the release of Nobivac Lepto 2, a vaccine that targets the serovars most commonly associated with the disease in Australia.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through the urine of animals such as rodents and wildlife, is a potentially fatal illness for dogs and a zoonotic risk to humans. It can be contracted by dogs through contact with stagnant water in both rural and urban environments.
Dr Christine Griebsch, a researcher at the University of Sydney’s School of Veterinary Science, has observed a significant rise in leptospirosis cases across the country.
“Since 2017, more than 36 cases have been confirmed in Sydney alone, while additional outbreaks have been observed in Newcastle and the Shoalhaven region,” she said. “Tropical areas, especially Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory, continue to see high case rates due to environmental factors and increased contact with reservoir hosts, making protection against leptospirosis essential for all dogs across the country.”
According to Agriculture Victoria, 35 cases of canine leptospirosis were reported in the state between January 2017 and December 2023, with 10 cases occurring this year. Tragically, 37 per cent of these cases proved fatal.
Nobivac Lepto 2 combines coverage for two key serogroups, Australis and Icterohaemorrhagiae, filling a gap created by recent vaccine shortages. The vaccine is designed to protect dogs as young as six weeks old, with an initial two-dose course followed by annual boosters.
Veterinarians are welcoming the development, particularly as leptospirosis is now considered a core vaccine in areas where the disease is endemic. Guidelines from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) emphasise vaccinating all dogs, regardless of breed, age, or lifestyle, due to the disease’s potentially severe or fatal outcomes.
Nobivac Lepto 2 is now available in 50-dose packs from veterinary wholesalers nationwide.
For further information, veterinarians are encouraged to contact their MSD Animal Health representative or call the company’s Technical Services team at 1800 033 461.
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