Merial has launched MERILYM 3, the first Lyme disease vaccine available in the UK. Merial has launched Merilym 3, the first Lyme disease vaccine available in the UK.

Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in Europe and there has been an increase of over 300% in the number of reported human cases in the UK since 20011. Caused by infection with bacteria from the Borrelia burgdorferi group, the disease is transmitted by Ixodes spp. ticks.  

Merial says the vaccine contains inactivated antigens from Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, Borrelia afzelli and Borrelia garinii, so provides broad spectrum immunity against infection. Vaccination with Merilym 3 induces high levels of antibodies against a key bacterial antigen, which are ingested by the tick during blood feeding and subsequently bind to the bacteria in the tick gut, reducing the risk of transmission from the tick to the host.

For use in dogs, the vaccine can be administered to puppies from 12 weeks old, with a primary vaccination course of two injections, three weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. It is available in packs of 10 doses.

For more information, speak to your local Merial Territory Manager.

Reference

  1. Health Protection Agency (2013) Epidemiology of Lyme Borreliosis in the UK. HPA, London. http://tinyurl.com/lmpfjga

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.