Assessment of Aujeszky’s Vaccination Programme in the Republic of Ireland

Abstract

By 1980 the prevalence of clinical Aujeszky ’s disease (AD) in the Republie of Ireland, together with evidence of widespread subclinical infection, was such that it was agreed to license AD vaccine. Only inactivated vaccines are permitted. The importation and distribution of vaccine are subject to control by the Department of Agriculture in order to maintain surveillance of vaccinated herds. To date 69 breeding herds and 9 fattening herds have been vaccinated with encouraging results. However, careful monitoring of the disease over the next decade should allow a more critical appraisal of its value.