New Vaccination Protocols

New Vaccination Protocols - A Review of the Literature
Recommendations for Cats
(Core, Non-Core, Not Recommended)

In 2000 the American Association of Feline Practitioners recommended reduced vaccinations for cats.

A three year license is pending.

This study by Dr Scott shows a 7 year duration of immunity for PLP Rh CV vaccines by challenge. Keep in mind
that in a research situation a 25% drop
in the WBC is considered proof of PLP infection. Vaccination for diseases like Rhino and Calici virus provide mucosal immunity which can only be expected to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Dr Norsworthy has been very critical of
Dr Scotts study so Dr Lappin repeated
the study and got comparable results.

There are 61 known Calici viruses so vaccination is by no means 100% protective. Cats with Rhinotracheitis,
a herpes virus, are prone to relapses.
I have administered over 15 thousand doses of the new Heska intranasal RhCv vaccine with only two very mild reactions in cats. It is nothing like the old
intranasal vaccine available in
1975 which had lots of severe reactions.

My cats, Zonker and Phred

A controversy arose over the method
by which these cats were challenged. They were not challenged by injection
of the virus. They were challenged by being housed with known infected cats for three years. Some felt this was not
an adequate challenge to demonstrate
three years duration of immunity for the vaccine. AAFP therefore recommends annual administration. Texas A&M and most Veterinary schools recommend every three years.

Unfortunately, a cat can be exposed to
the Felv virus , and become naturally immune, but still have residual damage
to the DNA which can result in a FeLV related disease years later( Hit and run phenomena). For this reason it is important to protect against transient infection.

The AAFP did not feel the benefit
justified vaccination of all cats. This vaccine can be useful in stopping an outbreak.

It was felt that FIP vaccine does not work.

I have not seen every snowflake, but I don’t think any two are alike.

The virus in the vaccine is not the virus that is commonly causing aids in the
US. The AAFP asked the USDA not to license this vaccine.

The company says they have a study.
The study I have seen by Dr. Pu shows
55% efficacy, due to induction of interferon, not due to antibodies. How long does interferon last and is it really worth the risk of three adjuvanted vaccines?

Ringworm vaccine is not
recommended by the AAFP.

Dr Lappin, an expert on feline upper respiratory diseases, was not wishing
for a Bordetella vaccine for cats . He
had never seen a case.

The legal side of this issue will be discussed next.

Last Update 05/05/2006