A new vaccine to protect against streptococcosis is now available in Latin America. AQUAVAC® Strep Sa-Si, commercialized by MSD Animal Health, is available for the active immunization of tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) and other susceptible fish species to reduce mortality and disease caused by Streptococcus agalactiae (serotype Ib) and Streptococcus iniae.

Streptococcosis is a neurological bacterial disease that affects warm water fish in both salt or freshwater environments, typically in tropical regions. This disease causes widespread morbidity and mortality in fish across all sizes, and presents significant economic loss for producers when the larger fish are affected. The predominant streptococcal diseases in tilapia are Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus iniae.

In field trials, the vaccine has demonstrated significant reduction of mortality with efficacy for at least six months, the entire duration of the tilapia production period. AQUAVAC® Strep Sa-Si has a zero-day withdrawal period; therefore, fish can be vaccinated at any point before harvest.

“MSD Animal Health is pleased to announce the approval of a new vaccine that provides protection to tilapia against streptococcosis, the most significant health challenge of tilapia. AQUAVAC® Strep Sa-Si will benefit tilapia health and tilapia producers throughout Latin America,” said Kasha Cox, global lead aquaculture, MSD Animal Health. “Tilapia grown in Latin America helps the region meet the growing demand for a safe and affordable protein source that helps contribute to a nutritious diet. MSD Animal Health continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the tilapia producers and the health and welfare of the fish they are raising,” said Cox.

AQUAVAC® Strep Sa-Si is the latest vaccine joining MSD’s range of products developed to protect against streptococcosis, including AQUAVAC Strep Sa and AQUAVAC Strep Sa1. With this portfolio of products to be used singularly and in combination, MSD now offers protection against the main disease-causing streptococcal strains including Streptococcus agalactiae (serotype Ia, Ib and III) and Streptococcus iniae.

AQUAVAC® Strep Sa-Si will be launched in Honduras and will be available in the Latin American region following local country regulatory approvals.