Contingency planning

In order to be prepared for possible animal health calamities, governments may decide on a plan, allowing the immediate initiation of a vaccination campaign.

This plan should include all the tools of a vaccination programme:

1. A bank system based on antigens or vaccines.
2. A supply of test-kits.
3. Sufficient equipment for a vaccination and testing campaign
   

1. A bank-system of vaccines or antigen?

For Foot and Mouth Disease vaccines there is the possibility for a bank system, based on antigens and/or vaccines.

In case of a vaccine the vaccination program can be started at any moment but it is necessary to keep stocks of vaccine, which is well before the expiry date. The shelf life of FMD vaccines is relatively short. In a country that is free of FMD, this is a rather expensive system.

A system of an antigen-bank in combination with a service contract for emergency formulation is a better alternative. Frozen FMD antigens are stable for many years. The contract for an antigen-bank system generally is custom-made for the situation in the country. A general proposal from Intervet is available but it is important to mention that a tailor-made solution can be made.

2. Chekit-FMD-3ABC

It is advised to keep a limited supply of complete test-kits on stock in the national laboratory. A contract for emergency supplies of larger quantities can be arranged. The delivery time of emergency supplies depends on the quantities required.