Vaccination of poultry against avian influenza: epidemiological rules of thumb and experimental quantification of the effectiveness of vaccination

Authors

  • M. Van Boven
  • J. Van der Goot
  • A.R.W. Elbers
  • G. Koch
  • G. Nodelijk
  • M.C.M. De Jong
  • T.S. De Vries
  • A. Bouma
  • J.A. Stegeman

Abstract

In The Netherlands a large outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry occurred in 2003. The outbreak has had devastating consequences, from both economic and animal-health perspective. Vaccination of poultry offers a potentially attractive measure to control and prevent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza. In this paper we discuss, from an epidemiological perspective, the values and limitations of vaccination as a control measure during an outbreak and as a preventive measure in an area at risk. In particular, we will discuss (i) the epidemiological prerequisites that have to be met for a vaccine and vaccination campaign to be effective, and (ii) experimental data that have helped quantifying the effect of vaccination on the reduction of transmission levels. We also discuss (iii) how the theoretical insights and experimental results have assisted the Dutch authorities to decide on whether or not to implement vaccination as a control measure.

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Published

2005-06-01