Novartis WNV antibody gains conditional license

Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc. has received USDA conditional license for West Nile Virus Antibody (Equine Origin) to help control the disease caused by the West Nile Virus. The company says it is the only antibody product to carry such a claim. When it comes to caring for horses that have the West Nile Virus, veterinarians options have been limited, says Richard Harland, DVM, director of research and development for Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc. Novartis has responded to this urgent need by developing a product that works against the virus.West Nile Virus Antibody is available from licensed veterinarians and is administered intravenously. Cornell University conducted a neutralizing index study that demonstrated the ability of the West Nile Virus Antibody to neutralize the West Nile Virus. Based on the study, researchers concluded there is a reasonable expectation of efficacy when the West Nile Virus Antibody is administered to horses that have been exposed to the virus. Field safety trials conducted to bring the product to market demonstrated West Nile Virus Antibody is safe when used according to label directions, says Harland. A complimentary expert roundtable discussion audio program is available by calling (800) 454-3424 ext. 339 and asking for New strategies for managing the West Nile Virus CD-ROM.

For fastest response call (913) 451-2708 or visit the Web site at www.livestock.novartis.com.