Biotechnologists can also genetically tailor the vaccine to outwit many of the techniques that disease-causing organisms use to successfully infect an animal. These 'smart' vaccines are particularly useful in dealing with complicated diseases where the animal's natural immune system needs help to identify and combat the illness. The viruses act as 'initiators' by weakening the immune system and paving the way for the bacterial 'terminators' to make the animal seriously ill. Cattle sometimes catch this disease. In large groups of animals it can spread rapidly.
Shipping Fever causes almost one billion dollars of loss each year.
Scientists have been working for 25 years to develop an effective vaccine using traditional methods, but the complex nature of the disease made it difficult. VIDO scientists are designing a specific vaccine made up of only the protective proteins that will make it easier for the immune system to recognize all six of the disease-causing organisms. Following vaccination the body can quickly produce the necessary antibodies against the sneaky tactics of Shipping Fever. This vaccine will prevent the tremendous loss and unnecessary death caused by this disease. Researchers at the Veterinary College at the University of Saskatchewan are investigating a disease known as Strangles which is caused by the organism streptococcus equi.