UK Government unveils framework to bolster veterinary vaccine supply

UK – The UK Government has published a new framework to strengthen the availability of veterinary vaccines, setting out a cross-sector plan to address supply challenges and spur innovation in animal health. 

The Statement of Intent, released on Thursday, 11 September by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), responds to growing concerns about the mismatch between vaccine supply and demand.

The document establishes a strategic framework for future action, aiming to move the current “just-in-time” model of production towards a more resilient “just-in-case” system. 

By ensuring vaccines are readily available when needed, officials say the framework will protect animal welfare, public health, food security, and the economy. 

The importance of vaccine resilience was underscored in a recent National Audit Office report on animal disease preparedness.

Four themes, five-year plan

The framework identifies four integrated strategic themes and associated workstreams, developed through consultation with stakeholders across the animal health sector. 

Its publication will be followed by a five-year multi-stakeholder UK action plan, coordinated by the VMD, that will set out ownership, governance, timelines, and measurable outcomes.

Abi Seager, Chief Executive of the VMD, said: “Vaccination is a vital component for assuring animal and human health. The need for vaccine innovation is increasing as we face into emerging disease threats and it is critical that supply meets demand. This is why VMD is championing this plan for vaccines and the multi-partnership approach that is key to delivering success.”

Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, emphasised the wider implications of the strategy. She explained that vaccines are crucial in preventing diseases in livestock and companion animals. 

“I welcome this strategic approach to support our vets and animal keepers to have access to effective vaccines when they need them. Vaccine availability isn’t just a UK issue – the global animal health community is facing into this challenge, so we will work with the World Organisation for Animal Health as well as with our international veterinary networks to share experience and find common solutions.”

Broad support across the sector

Industry and advisory bodies have welcomed the government’s move. David Catlow, Non-Executive Director at the VMD, described the strategy as “a timely and vital step to protect animal health and welfare, address issues relating to antibiotic resistance and protect public health through a One Health approach.”

The National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) also endorsed the initiative. Donal Murphy, Deputy CEO and Head of International and Regulatory Affairs, explained that NOAH welcomes the VMD’s statement of intent, outlining the steps it will undertake in collaboration with industry to minimise vaccine availability challenges. 

“Vaccine supply pressures are being felt across Europe and are driven by global manufacturing and logistical factors as well as technical challenges that can arise when manufacturing what are high tech products. This reinforces the need for forward planning and close coordination between farmers, suppliers, and manufacturers.”

The Statement of Intent follows months of engagement between the VMD, government agencies, veterinary professionals, the pharmaceutical industry, and wider animal health stakeholders. 

By setting the groundwork for a long-term, coordinated strategy, officials hope the framework will strengthen resilience against current and emerging animal disease threats while maintaining public confidence in vaccine safety and effectiveness.

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