Cattle Vaccines to Eradicate TB by 2038

England is launching a new strategy to eradicate bovine tuberculosis (BTB) by 2038, with significant changes planned for 2030. Cattle will undergo targeted vaccination, a move hailed as a 'gamechanger' for disease control. This initiative acknowledges that cattle transmit TB to each other 15 times more frequently than from wildlife.

As part of this evolving approach, the last badger culls are expected to conclude by 2029. Instead, vaccination programs for badgers will be expanded in priority areas. This strategy was developed through consensus among farmers, vets, and wildlife experts to address the costly impact of BTB on livelihoods and the economy.

A key component for cattle vaccination is the simultaneous rollout of the 'Diva' test, crucial for distinguishing between vaccinated and infected animals, as EU regulations currently ban such vaccines due to this difficulty. Diplomatic efforts are underway to ensure continued export of cattle products.

Experts emphasize that focusing on cattle is paramount, citing studies showing significantly higher transmission rates between bovine herds. International acceptance of the vaccine and test by 2030 is an ambitious but achievable goal, according to government officials. The new plan aims to accelerate progress towards a TB-free future for England's cattle.