Long-term IBR/IPV eradication programs in dairy herds using marker vaccines in four regions of Poland

The study investigated IBR/IPV control in four Polish dairy herds using marker vaccines and DIVAcompliant protocols. Four farms (A-D) were monitored over three years, with seroprevalence trends analyzed across different lactation groups. Key outcomes included: successful reduction in seroprevalence on Farms A and C, attributed to vaccination (MLV/inactivated) and biosecurity adherence, zero seroprevalence on Farm B, which had no prior virus circulation; increased seroprevalence on Farm D due to poor biosecurity during herd expansion, despite vaccination. The research emphasizes that marker vaccines are safe and effective but require robust herd management to prevent outbreaks. The EU’s flexible C+D+E classification for IBR/IPV allows tailored eradication programs, though high-prevalence regions like Poland face challenges. The study advocates for integrated approaches – combining vaccination, testing, and biosecurity – to achieve diseasefree status, mirroring successes in other EU regions. Limitations include the small sample size, urging broader research to optimize protocols for large-scale implementation.