After five years of research and development, a new fever tick vaccine is now available to help Texas ranchers battle the pest.
The first doses of the new vaccine were delivered to the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) Tuesday.
The vaccine will be a valuable tool in reducing the risk of new fever tick infestations in both permanent and temporary quarantine zones.
“There are numerous benefits of the fever tick vaccination, with the most significant being the potential to prevent the establishment of fever tick infestations on properties where cattle are being grazed. Additionally, the vaccine will be another tool aiding in more rapid eradication of fever ticks on infested premises,” said Dr. Andy Schwartz, TAHC executive director.
TAHC plans to host meetings in the counties along the permanent quarantine zone to discuss the vaccine and its effectiveness.
The doses were created through collaborative efforts between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Services (ARS), USDA Veterinary Services and Zoetis. It’s approved for use in beef cattle only, two months of age and older.
To be most effective, the vaccine must be given as two priming doses 28 days apart followed by a booster shot every six months.
The vaccine will be administered by state or federal regulatory personnel at no cost to ranchers, according to TAHC.