Novartis gets subcutaneous claim from FDA for several ViraShield products

Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc. received United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approval for the new subcutaneous-only route of administration claim for several Vira Shield products.The label change removes intramuscular injections, minimizing chances of injection-site damage to the animal. These new label claims emphasize the importance Novartis places on Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and help make highly efficacious Vira Shield more BQA friendly, says John Landon, beef marketing manager for Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc.He adds: Administering subcutaneous injections in the neck is one way to minimize any risk of injection-site damage.To properly administer subcutaneous injections, its recommended cattlemen use: The new smaller triangular injection zone in the neck, which begins about a hands width ahead of the shoulder; the tented injection technique; and a half- or three-quarter-inch needle.These Vira Shield products now offer subcutaneous-only administration: Vira Shield 5, Vira Shield 5+L5, Vira Shield 4, Vira Shield 4+L5, Vira Shield 3, Vira Shield 2+BRSV and Syn ShieldTM.A complimentary Hit the Zone poster depicting the proper injection site and subcutaneous administration technique is available.

For fastest response call (800) 454-3424 ext. 358 or visit the Web site at www.livestock.novartis.com.