NeO effervescent tablets offer an alternative to the traditional glass vial method of dispensing vaccines to water, in preparation for spray or drinking water administration. This new tablet technology is designed to significantly improve vaccination practices for poultry producers while maintaining reliable virus protection. The NeO tablets are packed in aluminium blisters and easily dissolve in water.

Gavin Kelly, Merial’s Avian Manager for the UK and Ireland, says: “We’re really excited to be able to bring this new tablet technology to British and Irish poultry producers. NeO is going to be really helpful on farm. Compared to the traditional glass vials, NeO tablets are much easier to use. They are coloured so you can be sure you have added the dose and there’s no risk of glass breakage, so it’s safer for operators too.

“Less glass and less packaging on farm can only be a good thing; the aluminium blister packs and card outers reduce the quantity of waste by 10% compared to vials. Fridge space is always at a premium, and while NeO tablets do need refrigerating, the packs only take up a fraction of the space normally required.”

Two of Merial’s world-leading poultry vaccines will be available in the new NeO format, including Gallivac IB88™ and Avinew™ and boast the same high levels of safety and efficacy.

Gallivac IB88™ NeO contains live vaccine against Infectious Bronchitis caused by the coronavirus variant, strain CR88 (793B) and is administered in water via spray. Avinew™ NeO contains live attenuated virus of Newcastle disease, VG/GA-AVINEW strain and is administered in water by either spray or through drinking water.

Producers interested in learning more about NeO should visit the Merial stand at Pig and Poultry Fair, or speak to their vet. Avinew™ NeO is already available while Gallivac IB88™ NeO is expected to be available shortly.