Klebsiella vaccine with SRP technology is a new management tool for the dairy industry
AgriLabs is teaming up with Epitopix to bring a first-of-its kind autogenous Klebsiella mastitis vaccine with SRP® technology. With Klebsiella pneumoniae mastitis, cattle production losses and death due to intramammary infection (IMI) are overall higher when compared to E. coli.1 Additionally, the economic impact of this disease can result in a daily milk loss of as much as 15 to 20 pounds. While this can be distressing, dairy producers now have a unique solution to help manage Klebsiella mastitis in their herds."We are proud to be partnering with Epitopix to pioneer this unique technology in the dairy industry," said Steve Schram, President and CEO of AgriLabs. "This new vaccine technology will enable us to continue to serve the needs of producers and give them access to a new tool for the management of Klebsiella."
A New Breed of Product for Klebsiella
Klebsiella mastitis historically has been linked to sawdust or shaving-based bedding. However, recent studies from Cornell University have shown that Klebsiella is commonly shed in fecal material of cows. Compared to E. coli, this disease seems to be more severe and the response to treatment appears to be poorer.
The Klebsiella vaccine technology is fundamentally different from other autogenous options because it utilizes SRP (siderophore receptor and porin proteins) technology. Disease-causing bacteria, like Klebsiella, require iron for growth and survival. When vaccinated with SRP, the cow's immune system is stimulated to make antibodies against the targeted siderophore receptors and porins, located in the outer wall of the bacteria. SRP vaccine-induced antibodies bind and block transfer of iron and nutrients through bacterial cell wall pores, starving bacteria of needed nutrients, specifically iron.
Recent studies of the Klebsiella vaccine with SRP technology indicate a good level of evidence of improvement over time. Within the first three to six months of vaccination, producers are seeing an overall improvement with a reduction in severity and reduced culling. After six to 18 months, dairy veterinarians and producers have reported a reduction in mastitis rate.
"This partnership will allow veterinarians access to this vaccine through a proven industry partner, AgriLabs," Jim Sandstrom, DVM, general manager, Epitopix, LLC. "The unique process of the SRP technology makes it well-suited for the challenges associated with disease-causing bacteria like Klebsiella. As producers know, Klebsiella is a widespread pathogen that is difficult to prevent in dairy operations. That's why it's so important to stay one step ahead with an effective management tool such as this vaccine."
Epitopix manufactures the Klebsiella mastitis vaccine with SRP technology, and AgriLabs is the exclusive distributor. For more information, producers should contact their AgriLabs representative or their veterinarian.
8.7.2014