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  Discussion on Encephalitis Vaccine: how often and how early
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Posted on Tuesday, Sep 4, 2001 - 12:26 am:

I just bought a new weanling colt. Because there have been over 30 horses that have died in my area this year from EEE, I want to make sure that he is protected before I bring him home. I asked the owners to give him the first shot and then give him a second in 2 wks. Vets here have advised not to wait the usual 3-4 wks. for the booster. The colt is about 4 mos. old and was being weaned within 2-3 days after the first shot.Can I consider him protected right after the 2nd shot or should I wait longer? Will he need a 3rd shot because of his age?

Posted on Wednesday, Sep 5, 2001 - 6:47 am:

Hello Wanda,
"We do not know" is really the only answer that is right. There are a lot of factors that influence the efficacy of vaccinations given to the young and these are just not studied with the encephalitis vaccines yet. The two most important questions are:
1) Does maternal immunity interfere with vaccination?
2) When does the maternal immunity for these diseases wane so that vaccination is efficacious?
The timing for boosters is important in order to achieve effective vaccine, do they have information that a 2 week span is enough to get a good anamnestic response? If not (I know of none) I would recommend they follow the directions on the bottle and then suggest a third shot at 6 months of age.
DrO

Posted on Friday, Sep 7, 2001 - 3:08 pm:

I live in Minnesota, and a horse recently died of EEE. 28 horses have died in Wisconsin. Vets being interviewed in TV and radio stories are recommending taking extra precaution and revaccinate adult horses. At less then $10 a vaccine, money isn't an issue. But are there any other reasons not to revaccinate?

Posted on Tuesday, Sep 25, 2001 - 5:46 pm:

I am sorry for the late response Marybeth, I lost your post since it was added to the bottom of someone elses discussion.

Because the immunity from these vaccines is known to be short lived, 6 months or less, it sounds like a good recommendation for those who have not been vaccinated in the last few months. There may be a slight increase risk of an allergic reaction but this is a minor concern faced with 28 dead horses in the state.
DrO
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