In a groundbreaking move for Egypt’s poultry sector, Boehringer Ingelheim has announced the launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5, a first-of-its-kind trivalent poultry vaccine. Set for release in February 2025, the innovative vaccine provides comprehensive protection against three major poultry diseases: Marek’s disease, Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro), and H5 avian influenza. This marks a milestone for poultry health and productivity, securing food security and reinforcing Egypt’s position in the global poultry market.
A Game-Changer in Poultry Disease Prevention
H5 avian influenza has long been a major challenge for poultry farmers due to its highly contagious nature and economic impact on global trade. With VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5, Boehringer Ingelheim delivers a powerful solution by combining protection against the H5 strain with immunity to Marek’s disease and Infectious Bursal Disease—all in one convenient dose.
Administered at the hatchery, the vaccine bridges the critical immunity gap between maternal antibodies and active immunity, ensuring early protection for chicks. This advancement is particularly important for Egypt’s poultry industry, which has faced recurrent outbreaks of avian influenza.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Enhanced Protection
The vaccine is built on Boehringer Ingelheim’s COBRA (Computationally Optimized Broadly Reactive Antigen) technology, enabling a broader immune response against multiple H5 avian influenza clades. This breakthrough approach enhances vaccine reliability and effectiveness, offering stronger and longer-lasting protection for poultry flocks.
“The launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is a significant step in avian influenza prevention, providing both improved coverage and ease of administration,” said Taoufik Rawi, Head of Franchise, Poultry at Boehringer Ingelheim. “Poultry farmers need effective solutions to keep their flocks healthy and thriving. This three-in-one vaccine delivers powerful protection against H5 avian influenza and two other critical poultry diseases.”
DIVA Technology: Strengthening Disease Control & Global Trade
One of the key advantages of this vaccine is its DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) capability, allowing authorities to distinguish between vaccinated and naturally infected birds. This is vital for disease control, enabling effective outbreak management and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.
Dr. David Swayne, former Laboratory Director at the USDA, emphasized the importance of such advancements, stating:
“H5 avian influenza remains a global threat to poultry health. Innovation in vaccination strategies, such as VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5, is critical to protecting poultry farms and securing food production.”
A Major Breakthrough for Egypt’s Poultry Industry
The launch of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 in Egypt—the first country globally to receive the vaccine—demonstrates its strategic importance in the fight against avian influenza in the IMETA (India, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa) region.
“Egypt has been heavily impacted by avian influenza, and this vaccine marks a major advancement for poultry farmers,” said Waleed El Mashak, Head of Animal Health IMETA at Boehringer Ingelheim. “Introducing this vaccine in Egypt first reaffirms our commitment to supporting sustainable poultry farming in the region.”
The Egyptian Veterinary Syndicate has also welcomed the vaccine, with President Magdy Hassan describing it as:
“A significant milestone that provides poultry farmers with a powerful tool to enhance flock immunity and safeguard against major poultry diseases.”
Similarly, Mahmoud El Mahdy, Country Head of Animal Health for North, East, and West Africa at Boehringer Ingelheim, added:
“This vaccine is a game-changer in poultry disease control. By enhancing flock health and market stability, it opens up new trade opportunities and strengthens Egypt’s role in global poultry production.”
Strengthening Food Security & Sustainable Poultry Farming
Egypt’s poultry industry is a pillar of the nation’s food security and economy, feeding millions of people and providing thousands of jobs. The introduction of VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+H5 is expected to bring significant benefits by:
✅ Enhancing poultry health
✅ Improving farm productivity
✅ Strengthening disease control and outbreak management
✅ Ensuring compliance with global trade standards
As Egypt continues to strengthen its poultry industry, this vaccine represents a major step forward in sustainable food production—securing a healthier future for farmers, industry stakeholders, and consumers alike.
