On April 10th, HIPRA launched ICHTIOVAC® ERM, its first inactivated vaccine for Atlantic salmon against Yersiniosis designed to be administered by immersion to combat the disease in the freshwater phase. The event, which took place in Castell de Peralada (Girona), brought together the main representatives of the European salmon sector.

Anna Herrero and Elisabeth Faureng from PatoGen took part in the event with a comprehensive update on yersiniosis. They explained the important variability of its strains, the transmission of the disease by asymptomatic carriers of the pathogen in freshwater and the bacterial dissemination associated with stressful situations, especially during seawater transfer and subsequent treatments. They also discussed diagnosis and the importance of biosecurity and prevention.

Among the features of ICTHIOVAC® ERM, Rosa Merino, Global Technical Manager and David Parra, R&D Researcher/Project Leader, highlighted the protection against the three main serotypes of Yersinia Ruckeri (O1BT1, O1BT2, O2BT1); an advanced onset of immunity (from 294 degree-days after the second dip) and a long lasting protection (up to 2129 degree-days after the second vaccination). It also improves operational efficiency and represents a more sustainable solution, as it allows a larger biomass of fish to be vaccinated with less vaccine volume, reducing the use of plastic and improving storage and transport logistics.

ICTHIOVAC® ERM will play a crucial role in improving the health and productivity of salmon aquaculture. This new vaccine represents HIPRA's commitment to innovation, sustainability and animal welfare, ensuring a brighter future for the industry.