Inactivated Schmallenberg virus prototype vaccines

Immunisation with the inactivated preparations resulted in a neutralising antibody response three weeks after the second vaccination without any side effects. The number of animals that seroconverted in each group and the strength of the antibody response were dependent on the cell line used for virus growth and on the viral titre prior to inactivation. Four vaccine prototypes completely prevented RNAemia after challenge infection, a fifth candidate reduced RNAemia considerably. Although further evaluations e.g. regarding duration of immunity will be necessary, the newly developed vaccines are promising candidates for the prevention of SBV-infection and could be a valuable tool in SBV control strategies.