Message Number: YG7621 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Pat Stauffer
Date: 2001-10-02 13:38:00 UTC
Subject: vaccines

Hi Dr. Williams:
This is from the packaging insert:
DESCRIPTION: PUREVAX TM Ferret Distemper is a lyophilized
vaccine of a recombinant canarypox vector expressing the HA
and F glycoproteins of canine distemper virus. Safety and
immunogenicity of this product have been demonstrated by
vaccination and challenge tests in suseptible ferrets
INDICATIONS: PUREVAX TM is recommended for the vaccination of
healthy ferrets 8 weeks of age and older for prevention of
disease due to canine distemper virus.
DOSAGE:Reconstitute the lyophilized vaccine with accompanying
liquid diluent and aseptically inject 1 mL (1 dose)
subcutaneously into healthy ferrets 8 wks of age and older.
Primary vaccination requires two additional 1 mL doses at 3
wk. intervals. Revaccinate annually with a single 1 mL dose.
PRECAUTIONS:Store at 2-7 deg C (35-45 deg F). Use immediately
after reconstitution. Do not use chemicals to sterilize
syringes and needles. Burn container and all unused contents.
Contains gentamicin as a preservative. It is generally
recommended to avoid vaccination of pregnant ferrets.
Administration of vaccines may cause lethargy, fever, and
inflammatory or hypersensitivity types of reactions. Treatment
may include antihistimines, anti-inflammatories, and/or
epinephrine. RM985R2

The only thing I don't understand (nor does one of our
associates) is why do these companies keep using gentamcin as
a preservative when it is supposedly harmful to ferrets.
Anyone know the answer to this?