Boehringer Ingelheim granted vaccine import permit for avian metapneumovirusBoehringer Ingelheim granted vaccine import permit for avian metapneumovirus

Vaccine provides producers with much-needed tool to help minimize impact of virus.

Krissa Welshans

October 30, 2024

2 Min Read
BI

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has granted Boehringer Ingelheim a permit allowing for importation of its TUR-3 (Newcastle disease, avian paramyxovirosis type 3 and turkey rhinotracheitis, killed virus) vaccine. TUR-3, a killed vaccine currently licensed for use throughout Europe, will be available for primary vaccination of U.S. turkey and chicken flocks against avian metapneumovirus (aMVP) subtype B.

AMVP can result in severe respiratory symptoms and increased mortality in poultry as well as a decrease in egg production. According to a recently conducted survey by the United States Animal Health Association Committee, the virus rose from years at the bottom of the disease challenge ranking to #1 of the 2024 survey. It was #38 in 2023.

 

“U.S. poultry producers have been challenged by avian metapneumovirus, and it’s positive news that our TUR-3 vaccine will be available as a tool to support USDA and industry efforts to protect flocks against this highly contagious respiratory disease,” said Steve Boren, head of the Boehringer Ingelheim U.S. Livestock and Equine business. “We understand that disease outbreaks not only impact poultry health, but also the livelihoods of producers and the security of our food supply. TUR-3 is a proven vaccine and a valuable tool for poultry producers.”

 

Boehringer responded to a request by the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB) for vaccines to protect against the virus. There is no vaccine currently licensed in the U.S. to address this disease challenge. 

 

“By leveraging the Boehringer global supply network, we were able to respond to USDA’s call for vaccines and support poultry producers who have been impacted by the virus,” said Boren. “We are steadfast in our commitment to delivering solutions that safeguard the health of poultry, and this import permit brings us one step closer to that goal. We are eager to continue our collaboration with USDA and poultry producers across the U.S., contributing to a healthier future for all."

TUR-3 is expected to be available in the U.S. in November. It is permitted for use domestically in turkeys and chickens.

About the Author

Krissa Welshans

Krissa Welshans grew up on a crop farm and cow-calf operation in Marlette, Michigan. Welshans earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Michigan State University and master’s degree in public policy from New England College. She and her husband Brock run a show cattle operation in Henrietta, Texas, where they reside with their son, Wynn.

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