leishmania vaccination

VACCINATION AGAINST LEISHMANIA

Finally, 110 years after the discovery of the disease, 25 years after the first efforts to develop a vaccine, and after millions of animals that have died from the disease, there is now a vaccine against leishmania!

The effect of the vaccine is based on a protein that is introduced into the organism which is thus prompted to prepare for a probable infection with the parasite. Upon actual infection, the parasite can be coped with more efficiently, giving better protection to the dog.

Dogs from six months of age can be vaccinated. Before the first vaccination it is necessary to execute an examination of the blood to detect any present infection with the parasite (infected dogs can in no case be vaccinated!). The initial vaccination consists of three shots administered at three week intervals. During this period and for two weeks before and after the dog cannot be vaccinated against other diseases. After that, yearly booster shots are applied without the prior blood test.

The leishmania vaccine should only be administered to healthy dogs that have previously been treated against parasites. After the shot a minor skin irritation may occur which will disappear after a few days.

Upon vaccination a special document is issued which verifies that the dog is fully covered against the disease. Protection with a collar during the summer months is still recommended in order to avoid multiple bites of insects, since they also transmit other parasites dangerous to the body.

You will find more information on the vaccine Canileish by Virbac on the internet.