Supplies of the sheep vaccine Heptavac P Plus will be secured by late March, according to MSD Animal Health, amid constraints on current supply.

Heptavac P Plus is used for the active immunisation of sheep as an aid in the control of clostridial diseases and pasteurellosis.

MSD said yesterday (Friday, March 7) that it remained committed to producing these vaccines for its customers, and that managing supply constraints is a key priority for the company.

Jack O'Connor, ruminant business unit director at MSD Animal Health, said: “We are currently experiencing a constraint on the supply of Heptavac P Plus, and there is limited stock available in the market at present.

"We are expecting large deliveries across 100ml, 250ml and 500ml pack sizes throughout March. To receive the most up-to-date information on the availability of the vaccine in your area, please contact your vet or your usual supplier," O' Connor added.

MSD said it has been taking several steps to increase vaccine production levels, including upgrading the equipment within its manufacturing network and shifting resources to maximise capacity.

"These actions have put us in a stronger position than in previous years to meet customer demand. However, despite our best efforts, several factors continue to negatively impact our supply chain, meaning there will still be supply constraints," the animal health business said.

MSD said it aims to support its customers during this time by allocating vaccine stock where possible, in line with historical demand at an individual customer level.

The company's announcement comes after the issue was addressed by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon.

The minister said at the end of February that his department has been working to address the Heptavac P Plus vaccine shortage, and that it has implemented a system to issue a special import licence for an alternative vaccine.

The minister was responding to a parliamentary question from Deputy Aidan Farrelly, Social Democrat TD for Kildare North.

Deputy Farrelly asked the minister what his plans were to increase the supply and availability of Heptavac P Plus.

The Minister responded that he was aware of the recent shortages of the vaccine in the market and that officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) have been working to address this.

"The relevant marketing authorisation holder has advised my officials that shipments are scheduled for delivery throughout February and March," he said.