Blue Vac

BlueVac is a family of modified live virus vaccines recommended for immunization of healthy, non-pregnant sheep against bluetongue caused by virulent field strain virus. There are currently 3 vaccines available for protection against the three strains of bluetongue virus present in California. BlueVac-10 immunizes sheep against International Type 10 virus; similarly, BlueVac-11 immunizes against International Type 11 virus, and BlueVac-17 immunizes against International Type 17 virus. Each vaccine strain will only promote immunity against its homologous field strain virus; there is no cross protection afforded. If disease occurs in vaccinated sheep, it is important that laboratory assistance be obtained to identify the agent causing it. Laboratory studies and field trials have demonstrated that the modified virus used in these products will not cause disease in vaccinated animals, but will produce a satisfactory strain-specific immunity.

BlueVac is sold through the California Wool Growers Association. They can be reached at (916) 444-8122. Their email address is cwga@gvn.net and their street address is California Wool Growers Association, 1225 H Street, Suite 101, Sacramento, California 95814-1910. They have a web site at www.woolgrowers.org.