Immunization against feline calicivirus infection

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common respiratory pathogen in cats.
• Developing effective vaccines against FCV is crucial for feline health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of the F-9 strain of feline calicivirus vaccine.
• To assess the protective efficacy of the F-9 vaccine against virulent FCV challenge.

Main Methods:

• Forty-three cats were vaccinated intramuscularly with two doses of the F-9 FCV strain.
• Vaccinated cats were monitored for adverse responses and virus shedding.
• Serum-neutralizing antibodies were measured post-vaccination.
• Vaccinated cats were challenged with a virulent FCV strain (FPV-255).

Main Results:

• No adverse reactions or virus spread were observed in vaccinated cats.
• Vaccination induced a significant increase in serum-neutralizing antibodies.
• Antibody levels correlated with the administered vaccine dose.
• Vaccinated cats showed significant protection against virulent FCV challenge.

Conclusions:

• The F-9 strain of feline calicivirus is a safe and immunogenic vaccine candidate.
• The F-9 vaccine provides significant protection against virulent FCV infection in cats.