Gaps in evidence on vaccinating badgers against TB, researchers say
Researchers want increased monitoring of the vaccination's impact on the disease and a review of the evidence.
A critical review by researchers highlights significant gaps in evidence surrounding the effectiveness of vaccinating badgers in Wales against bovine tuberculosis (TB). The study, conducted by a team from the British Ecological Society's Wales policy group, Cardiff, and Aberystwyth universities, suggests that these gaps undermine the potential of this method to curb the disease.
Vaccination is part of a broader program aimed at eradicating bovine TB in Wales, a proposition that has sparked controversy. The Welsh government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the issue, emphasizing an evidence-based and science-led approach. This strategy encompasses three key elements: cattle, people, and wildlife.
Calls for alternative methods to vaccination, such as badger culling, have been mounting, given the potential for badgers to carry and transmit the disease to cattle. Regular testing of cattle for the infection has led to the slaughter of carriers. Researchers are urging for enhanced monitoring of the vaccination's impact, a comprehensive review of the evidence, and collaboration with farmers to maximize the program's effectiveness.
Key questions remain about the extent of badger vaccination, the impact on cattle disease levels, and ways to enhance farmer and veterinary professionals' confidence in the vaccination process. Dr. Niall McKeown, a lecturer at Aberystwyth University and the vice-chair of the British Ecological Society's Wales policy group, stressed that badger vaccination cannot be viewed as a standalone solution to eradicate bovine TB.
He emphasized the need for vaccination to be more targeted, measured, and evaluated, highlighting that any benefit to cattle is contingent on sustained and extensive vaccination coverage, complemented by effective cattle control measures.
The Welsh government has acknowledged the need for a renewed approach to eradicating bovine TB, focusing on cattle, people, and wildlife. The government recently established a new board to lead efforts in eliminating the disease, following the successful pilot schemes in Pembrokeshire and parts of North Wales.
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