A Shot at Change: The UK’s Push for a Cattle TB Vaccine
The UK is leading global efforts to license a cattle TB vaccine and companion DIVA test that could reshape how the disease is controlled.
Bovine tuberculosis (TB) has long been one of the toughest animal health challenges in the UK — costing farmers millions and sparking debate over testing, culling, and wildlife management. Now, a potential breakthrough could be on the horizon.
The UK is testing a new cattle vaccine based on the BCG strain, alongside a DIVA test designed to tell the difference between vaccinated and infected animals. This dual approach could make it possible to vaccinate herds without disrupting disease surveillance — a problem that has stalled progress for decades.
Field trials began in 2021 on volunteer farms in England and Wales, marking a crucial step toward regulatory approval. If successful, the vaccine could become part of the UK’s long-term plan to eradicate bovine TB, while easing reliance on costly testing and culling programs.
But challenges remain. Even if proven effective, the vaccine must meet international trade standards. Some countries currently restrict imports from regions using TB vaccination, citing concerns about testing accuracy. That’s why securing global recognition for DIVA-compatible vaccines will be key for the UK — and any nation hoping to follow its lead.
The UK government views vaccination as one part of a broader TB control strategy, combining science, policy, and economics. Questions about rollout, funding, and timing are still open, but the potential rewards are significant.
If the trials succeed, the UK could pave the way for a new global model of TB control — one that protects both animal health and trade, while moving closer to the goals of the One Health approach linking animal, human, and environmental wellbeing.
Source: https://www.thecattlesite.com/articles/cattle-tb-vaccination-in-the-uk