What is STARTVAC®?
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What is STARTVAC®?

STARTVAC® is a polyvalent inactivated vaccine against bovine mastitis registered by EMA (European Medicines Agency). In herds that have adopted vaccination, along with maintained or improved management, significant benefits for the cows, farmers, processors, consumers and the environment can be achieved.


How does STARTVAC® work?

STARTVAC® strengthens the immunity in cows and heifers, and prevents intramammary infections, reducing clinical and sub-clinical mastitis against S. aureus, E. coli and other coliforms and CNS. Its mechanism of action is different for each microorganism:

E. coli and coliforms: STARTVAC® acts by inhibiting the development of the cell wall, thereby preventing bacterial growth. STARTVAC® acts against the CORE antigen at a specific time in the growth of the wall, thus enhancing the recognition of the natural defences for the destruction of the bacteria.

The J5 based component raises antibodies to the common core of E. coli other coliforms and enteric bacteria. It has been available in the USA for some 20 years and it is proven to reduce the severity of mastitis of this family of bacteria significantly.

S. aureus and CNS: STARTVAC® hinders the formation of biofilm. Biofilm or Slime, is a layer of exopolysaccharides that surrounds the bacteria, enhancing their growth and resistance to antibiotics.

The biofilm component of the vaccine is aimed at the "biofilm" produced by Staph. aureus and some of the CNS family. Biofilm is a protective niche that protects bacteria against antibiotic and natural defenses helping the infection becomes chronic. STARTVAC® prevents the development of biofilm and also favors contact with neutrophils, enabling the destruction of bacteria.


What are the benefits of using STARTVAC®?

According to the results from the EMA registration trials, the main Benefits of STARTVAC® are:

Reduction of the incidence of clinical and sub-clinical intramammary infections up to day 130 post-partum.
Reduction in the severity of symptomatology of clinical cases (both in appearance of milk and quarters).

Reduction in somatic cell counts (SCC).