Detection of Live Virus in the Multikan-8 Vaccine
Rosselkhoznadzor identified a live Aujeszky’s disease virus in samples of the 20th batch of the Multikan-8 vaccine, collected in the Yaroslavl region. This discovery confirms the connection between the use of this vaccine batch and widespread fatal cases among dogs immunized with the product.
The recalled 20th batch amounts to 60,000 doses. Due to the detected contamination, Rosselkhoznadzor ordered the withdrawal and destruction of the entire batch, marking a crucial step to prevent further incidents.
What Is Aujeszky’s Disease and Why Is It Dangerous
Aujeszky’s disease, or pseudorabies, is an acute viral illness affecting the central nervous system of both domestic and wild animals. Statistically, it results in death in most infected cases, making it extremely dangerous for dogs.
The presence of a live Aujeszky’s virus in the vaccine poses a risk of infection to vaccinated animals, calling into question the safety of the product and raising serious concerns among veterinary professionals.
Dog Fatalities and Owners’ Reactions
Since mid-August, dog owners in the Yaroslavl region have been reporting mass deaths of pets following vaccination with Multikan-8. These incidents sparked widespread public outcry and concern among pet owners across Russia.
The vaccine manufacturer, Vetbiokhim, responded by recalling four batches of the product, including the 20th. However, the company did not admit direct responsibility for the dog deaths but offered compensation to affected parties through amicable settlements.
Quality Control Measures and Their Review
The discovery of live virus in the vaccine indicates breaches in production quality control. Vaccination must exclude the presence of pathogens capable of causing disease, especially highly dangerous ones like Aujeszky’s disease.
The Multikan-8 case highlights the need to tighten control procedures during vaccine manufacturing and testing stages, as well as to strengthen oversight by government authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Implications for the Veterinary Industry and Animal Safety
The detection of live virus in the vaccine undermines trust in mass vaccination products, which play a key role in preventing infectious diseases in pets. This could lead to reduced vaccination rates and increased epidemic risks.
Veterinarians and manufacturers are now obliged to revise safety standards and inform pet owners about potential risks to minimize harm and protect animal health nationwide.
Conclusion: The live Aujeszky’s disease virus found in the Multikan-8 vaccine reveals serious quality control issues and necessitates an immediate review of production and regulatory procedures.