Breakthroughs in veterinary medicine: 2025 results from the European Medicines Agency

22.01.2026
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Vaccination against highly pathogenic avian influenza

One of the key achievements in 2025 was the approval of several vaccines against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5, including circulating clade 2.3.4.4b. Among the new products, the following stand out:

- Vaxxitek HVT+IBD+H5: A recombinant live vaccine intended for active immunization of day-old chicks and 18-day-old embryos. This drug not only reduces mortality and clinical manifestations of the disease but also prevents virus shedding into the environment, which is critical for infection control.

- Vaxxinact H5: A subunit recombinant vaccine approved under “exceptional circumstances.” It is intended for chickens, as well as various duck species, including mulard, Muscovy, and Pekin ducks, as well as turkeys. This vaccine has become an important step in the fight against epidemics, providing protection not only to chicken flocks but also to other bird species.

Fighting bluetongue virus

In response to the spread of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in Europe, the CVMP recommended the registration of two new products:

- Bluevac-3 and Syvazul BTV 3: Inactivated vaccines for sheep and cattle . These products help to significantly reduce viremia and mortality in flocks, which is particularly important for farms facing new disease outbreaks.

Innovations and new therapeutic areas

In addition to vaccines, the EMA report highlights other significant advances in veterinary medicine:

- Lenivia (izenivetmab): A first-of-its-kind monoclonal antibody for dogs designed to relieve pain in osteoarthritis. This drug opens new horizons in the treatment of chronic diseases in pets.

- BioBhyo: A new vaccine to protect pigs against dysentery caused by Brachyspira hyodysenteriae. This is an important step in the fight against infections that can cause significant economic losses for pig farms.

- Varenzin (molidustat): A treatment for non-regenerative anaemia in dogs and cats, which contributes to improving the quality of life of pets with chronic diseases.

The EMA's 2025 milestones highlight the importance of innovation in veterinary medicine and the need to respond rapidly to epizootic threats. The development of new vaccines and therapeutics not only improves animal health but also contributes to the sustainability of agriculture in the face of global challenges. The European Agency continues its work to ensure the safety and efficacy of veterinary medicinal products, which is essential for the health of both animals and people.

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