Boehringer Ingelheim Receives EMA Backing for Two New Avian Influenza Vaccines
Boehringer Ingelheim has taken a major step forward in the global fight against avian influenza. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has issued positive opinions recommending marketing authorisations under exceptional circumstances for two of the company’s latest vaccines:
Vaxxitek HVT+IBD+H5 and Vaxxinact H5.
Both vaccines target the H5 strain of avian influenza, which continues to trigger outbreaks across Europe and disrupt poultry production worldwide.
Why These Vaccines Matter?
Avian influenza remains one of the most destructive diseases affecting both domestic and wild birds. The H5 strain, in particular, is:
Highly contagious
Rapidly evolving
Economically devastating for poultry producers
Outbreaks often lead to:
Mass culling of birds
Significant financial losses
Trade restrictions for poultry and eggs
With H5 outbreaks spreading to new regions—including Latin America and even Antarctica—there is an urgent need for modern, scalable prevention tools.
A Turning Point in Avian Flu Prevention
Boehringer Ingelheim’s two vaccines introduce innovative solutions to help national authorities strengthen disease control strategies.
1. DIVA Technology: A Game-Changer for Trade
Both vaccines are equipped with DIVA (Differentiate Infected from Vaccinated Animals) technology. This feature:
Helps distinguish vaccine-induced antibodies from infection-induced antibodies
Supports surveillance programmes
Reduces the risk of trade disruptions
Increases confidence in the safety of exported poultry products
2. Designed for an Evolving Virus
As H5 continues to mutate, vaccines must adapt as well. Boehringer’s products are built with continuous monitoring in mind, ensuring protection against emerging variants.
Voices From Boehringer Ingelheim
Armin Wiesler, head of the animal health business unit, emphasized the urgency of innovation in livestock health:
“Transboundary animal diseases like avian influenza will continue to be a threat. We are ready to support governments, health authorities and producers with our vaccines and expertise in designing strong disease control plans.”
Taoufik Rawi, head of poultry franchise, highlighted the importance of DIVA vaccines:
“The DIVA feature allows customers to run surveillance programmes and support safe trade while vaccinating. The positive EMA opinions are critical for strengthening preparedness across Europe.”
The Larger Context: A Global Crisis Since 2021
H5 outbreaks in recent years have:
Reached unprecedented scale
Hit most continents
Severely impacted poultry availability and pricing
Forced widespread culling
Triggered global trade instability
The EMA’s positive opinions mark a critical milestone for Europe as it enhances its preparedness for ongoing and future outbreaks.
What Happens Next?
Following the EMA’s CVMP recommendation, the European Commission will review and decide on granting marketing authorisations under exceptional circumstances in the coming months.
If approved, these vaccines will provide policymakers and producers with new tools at a time when avian flu risks continue to escalate.
About Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim is a global leader in both human and animal health. The company:
Develops innovative vaccines and treatments for pets, livestock, and horses
Invests heavily in R&D
Focuses on tackling high unmet medical needs
Supports veterinarians, farmers, governments, and animal owners
Their mission is built on a simple belief: the health of humans and animals is deeply connected.
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