Boehringer Ingelheim’s new avian flu vaccines gain EU backing

GERMANY – Europe has moved closer to expanding its arsenal against avian influenza after the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Veterinary Medicinal Products adopted positive opinions for two Boehringer Ingelheim vaccines targeting the highly pathogenic H5 strain. 

The recommendations, announced this week, support granting marketing authorisations under exceptional circumstances for VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 and VAXXINACT® H5, both designed to immunize poultry against a virus that continues to fuel outbreaks across the continent.

Boehringer Ingelheim, a global leader in animal health, said the endorsement reflects the urgent need for more preventive tools as avian influenza remains a significant threat to commercial and wild bird populations. 

The company noted that the H5 strain remains one of the most prevalent and economically damaging variants circulating in Europe.

Strengthening EU readiness amid evolving threats

Avian influenza is a highly contagious and closely regulated disease, with national authorities maintaining continuous surveillance to prevent cross-border spread. 

Outbreaks often result in the culling of large numbers of birds, substantial economic losses for producers, and export restrictions that can disrupt poultry supply chains.

As the virus evolves, vaccination is increasingly seen as a key component of control strategies. Global bodies such as the World Organization for Animal Health recommend integrating vaccination into national response plans.

“Transboundary Animal Diseases like avian influenza will continue to be a threat, so new approaches to control these infectious diseases in animals, especially livestock, are increasingly important,” said Armin Wiesler, Head of the Animal Health Business Unit and Member of the Board of Managing Directors at Boehringer Ingelheim. 

He added that the company stands ready to support governments and producers with vaccines, monitoring, and robust disease control plans.

Since 2021, highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 has caused unprecedented losses worldwide, spreading to regions such as Latin America and even Antarctica. 

The outbreaks have disrupted global poultry meat and egg markets, with severe financial implications for producers and traders.

DIVA technology to support biosecurity and trade

The newly endorsed vaccines feature DIVA (Differentiate Infected from Vaccinated Animals) technology, enabling authorities to distinguish between infected and vaccinated birds through a biomarker embedded in the vaccines. 

This distinction is vital for surveillance, outbreak management, and maintaining trade flows in the face of rising sanitary restrictions.

“By continuously monitoring the efficacy of our vaccines and advancing our technologies, we ensure the right protection against the evolving avian influenza virus,” said Taoufik Rawi, Head of Franchise, Poultry, Boehringer Ingelheim. 

“The DIVA feature allows our customers to implement their surveillance programs and support safe trade while vaccinating.”

Boehringer Ingelheim says the positive opinions for VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 and VAXXINACT® H5 represent a significant step toward strengthening European preparedness for future outbreaks.

The European Commission is expected to issue final decisions on the marketing authorisations in the coming months.

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