Merck Receives USDA Approval for Innovative RNA-Based Dog Flu Vaccine

Merck (NYSE:MRK) has received USDA approval for its NOBIVAC NXT Canine Flu H3N2 vaccine, leveraging RNA-particle technology. Designed for dogs aged eight weeks and up, the vaccine's RNA approach promises a precise immune response to various pathogens. The vaccine will become available by late summer.

Introduction:
Merck Animal Health, a leading provider of animal health products, has recently announced the receipt of USDA approval for its groundbreaking Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent vaccine. This first-of-its-kind vaccine aims to protect dogs from both canine influenza virus (CIV) H3N2 and CIV H3N8, two strains that have been causing concern in veterinary circles (1). Adopting the latest RNA-particle technology, the vaccine promises precise and effective immune responses against these pathogens.

The Need for a Dual-Strain Vaccine:
Since their identification, CIV H3N2 and H3N8 have been prevalent in various parts of the United States, with H3N2 being identified more recently in 2015 (1). These respiratory diseases, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), can cause a range of symptoms such as coughing, fever, and lethargy in affected dogs (1). The extended shedding period of CIV H3N2, up to 24 days, contributes to its rapid spread among social dogs in various settings (2).

The Science Behind the Innovation:
The Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent vaccine leverages RNA-particle technology, which ensures precise immune responses against various pathogens (1). By introducing a small piece of RNA into the cells, the immune system learns to recognize and fight the disease-causing agents, leading to a more effective immune response (3). This approach is particularly valuable in the context of influenza viruses, which undergo frequent mutations and require frequent updates to traditional vaccines (3).

Conclusion:
The USDA approval of Merck's Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent vaccine marks a significant milestone in the fight against canine influenza. By offering protection against both H3N2 and H3N8 strains, this innovative vaccine simplifies the process of protecting dogs from these respiratory diseases and serves as a testament to Merck's commitment to improving animal health and well-being.

References:
1. Merck Animal Health. Merck Animal Health Announces USDA Approval of Innovative Canine Flu Bivalent Vaccine. https://www.merck.com/news/merck-animal-health-announces-usda-approval-of-innovative-canine-flu-bivalent-vaccine/
2. Schultz, R. Canine Influenza - An Overview. University of Wisconsin-Madison. https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/news/2014/04/canine-influenza-an-overview.htm
3. Khan, A. et al. RNA Vaccines and Lipid Nanoparticles. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery. 2020; 19(10): 683-703. doi: 10.1038/s41573-020-00204-x