Distem-R TC

Mink Distemper Vaccine

Modified Live Virus

DIRECTIONS FOR USE, READ CAREFULLY

Distem-R TC contains a modified live virus grown in chicken embryo tissue culture and combined with stabilizing agents. This vaccine is for use in mink 8 weeks of age or older, as an aid in preventing distemper through vaccination by subcutaneous injection.

Distemper is a highly contagious disease of mink and dogs which is transmitted through the air, from animal to animal, and on clothing, equipment or supplies. Although the incubation period of distemper is known to be long, the actual time an animal can harbor the disease before visible signs appear has not been determined. Hence, the best insurance a rancher can have against distemper is a routine program of vaccinating kits and breeders.

WHEN TO VACCINATE

Eight weeks of age or older. Revaccinate breeders for distemper one month before mating season.

OUTBREAK SITUATIONS

The best way to avoid distemper is to follow an annual vaccination program. However, when distemper threatens a nonvaccinated herd, losses may be minimized by vaccinating those mink which are not showing signs of the disease. Prompt vaccination will ordinarily protect those mink which do not become infected before protection is developed. Start by vaccinating those mink having the least contact with the infected animals. Vaccination will not cure or arrest the disease in infected animals and because of the long term incubation period of distemper, animals apparently healthy at the time of emergency vaccination may continue to die for several months.

PREPARATION OF THE VACCINE

1. Do not open and mix the vaccine until ready for use.

2. Mix only one vial at a time and use entire contents within two hours.

3. Disinfect exposed rubber stoppers with alcohol or other disinfectants.

4. Using a sterile transfer needle, or a sterile needle and syringe, transfer the entire contents of the diluent bottle into the bottle of dried vaccine. (Insert transfer needle into diluent first, turn diluent bottle upside down, then insert other end of transfer needle into vaccine bottle. Diluent will be drawn into vaccine bottle by vacuum.)

5. As soon as all diluent has been transferred, shake the vaccine several times to suspend evenly.

6. The vaccine is now ready for use.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Mink younger than 8 weeks of age and born from vaccinated female breeders may possess strong maternal immunity which can interfere with this vaccine. Thus, vaccination of such mink is not recommended before 8 weeks of age.

HOW TO VACCINATE

For all mink, inject 1.0 ml (cc) under the skin, preferably in the region of the armpit (axillary space).

CAUTION

1. For veterinary use only.

2. Vaccinate only healthy animals. Although disease may not be evident, Aleutian disease, urinary tract infections, boils or other disease conditions may cause complications or reduce protection.

3. Do not mix with inactivated products such as botulinum toxoid or enteritis vaccine. Administer distemper vaccine with separate equipment and use separate injection sites.

4. Use only sterile needles and syringes to inject the vaccine. Syringes and needles may be sterilized by boiling for 15 to 20 minutes. DO NOT disinfect with chemicals since they may destroy the vaccine virus.

5. Do not transfer vaccine to other containers.

6. Protect the vaccine from excessive light and heat.

7. Do not save any unused portion of the vaccine mixture for later use.

8. Do not spill or spatter the vaccine. Use entire contents of vial when first opened. Burn empty bottles, caps and all unused vaccine and accessories.

9. Do not dilute the vaccine or otherwise stretch the dosage.

10. Store at 2° to 7°C (35° to 45°F).

RECORDS

Keep a record of vaccine type, quantity, serial number, expiration date, and place of purchase; the date and time of vaccination; the number, age, and location of the mink; names of operators performing the vaccination and any observed reactions.

This vaccine contains gentamicin as a preservative.

U.S. Veterinary License No. 165A

Schering-Plough Animal Health Corporation, Omaha, Nebraska 68103, U.S.A.

Copyright © 1976, 1992, Schering-Plough Animal Health

All rights reserved.

P11209-11

Nac No.