The effectiveness of the vaccine in providing passive immunity to young lambs and calves depends on these animals ingesting adequate amounts of colostrum on the first day of life.
No side effects other than those listed below are expected when the vaccine is used between 8 and 2 weeks prior to parturition. In the absence of specific data, the use of the vaccine during the first or second trimester of pregnancy should be avoided. Avoid stress in pregnant ewes and cows.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the presence of maternal antibodies, particularly against C. tetani, C. novyi Type B, C. perfringens Type A (calves only), C. chauvoei (lambs only) and C. perfringens Type D may reduce the antibody response to vaccination in young lambs and calves. Therefore, to ensure an optimal response in young animals with high levels of MDA, the primary vaccination should be delayed until the levels wane (which is after about 8-12 weeks of age).
75 - 100% of vaccinated animals may experience reactions to vaccination. These reactions are usually localised swelling or induration at the injection site but may also include mild hyperthermia, abscess or other reaction in the underlying tissues at the injection site.
Swelling at the injection site occurs in the majority of animals. This may reach up to 6 cm in sheep and 14 cm diameter in cattle. Most local reactions resolve within 3-6 weeks in sheep and in less than 10 weeks in cattle. In up to 17% of animals an abscess may develop. Vaccination may give rise to reactions in the underlying tissues at the injection site.
Skin discolouration (which returns to normal as the local reaction resolved) and localised pain for 1-2 days post first vaccination may occur at the injection site.
The local reactions do not affect the general health, demeanour, feeding or weight gain of the animals.
In calves and lambs, local reactions may increase slightly if twice the recommended dose is administered.
In the event of an anaphylactic reaction appropriate treatment such as adrenaline should be administered without delay.
Withdrawal periods
Cattle: zero days.
Sheep: zero days.
Operator warnings
In the case of accidental self-injection, encourage bleeding and wash the area immediately with water. If a local reaction develops, seek medical advice showing the package leaflet or the label to the physician.