Introduction. Duck virus hepatitis (DVH) is a highly contagious acute disease primarily affecting ducklings, causing significant economic losses in duck farming. It is included into the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) list of notifiable diseases. Three main virus types cause duck virus hepatitis, with type 1 being the most ubiquitous and the primary etiological agent in most regions worldwide.

Objective. Systematization and analysis of contemporary approaches to prevention of duck virus hepatitis, review of promising strategies for recombinant and multivalent vaccine development.

Materials and methods. Literature searches and analysis were performed using the Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and RSCI (Russian Science Citation Index) databases.

Results. This article analyzes current DVH situation, and reviews key features of the disease pathogenesis, immune response and the disease diagnosis. Furthermore, it presents comparative data on various vaccine characteristics, including production methods, efficacy, immunization schedules, immune response profiles, advantages and disadvantages, and commercial availability. This article summarizes existing approaches to livestock protection and proposes directions for further research.

Conclusion. Although a large number of different foreign vaccines against DVH is available, embryo vaccine against DVH based on VGNKI-K strain is the only vaccine produced in the Russian Federation and it has a rather limited shelf life (9 months). In response to this need, the Federal Centre for Animal Health is carrying out research aimed at developing a live freeze-dried vaccine featuring extended shelf life.

Introduction. Newcastle disease continues to inflict significant economic damage on the global poultry industry, dictating the need to revise traditional vaccina tion strategies. Classical live vaccines, despite their widespread use, have a number of limitations, including interference with maternal antibodies and inability to completely prevent the field virus shedding due mismatch with current genotypes. This paper constitutes an analytical review of the current landscape of genetically engineered vaccines against Newcastle disease. It systematizes the data on key technological platforms: recombinant vector vaccines, reverse genetics-based prod ucts, as well as subunit, VLP-, and DNA-vaccines. A comparative analysis of the immunogenicity, safety, and ease of use of these platforms is conducted; particular attention is paid to the possibilities of implementing the DIVA strategy. It is demonstrated that, although vector vaccines have become the industry standard, reverse genetics technologies offer unique potential for controlling viral variability and reducing virus circulation in flocks. The conclusion substantiates the need to integrate various technological approaches to create effective disease eradication programs.

Objective. Formation of an objective picture of the current state of the problem, which is necessary for determining further avenues for improving biosecurity strategies in commercial poultry farming.

Materials and methods. The analytical study was conducted on the basis of domestic and foreign scientific publications on Newcastle disease immunoprophylaxis

Results. The existing vaccines against Newcastle disease virus have been analyzed and reviewed. Their immunogenicity, ability to overcome maternal antibodies, compatibility with the DIVA strategy, virus shedding control, safety and ease of use have been described. Historical background is also provided. The necessity of transitioning from traditional vaccines to genetically engineered prophylactic products is substantiated.

Conclusion. The development and implementation of subunit and nucleic acid vaccines are the most important evolutionary steps in the field of Newcastle disease immunoprophylaxis, thus enabling the implementation of the virus eradication strategy in poultry flocks.

Introduction. Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks that were reported in Africa in 2013–2023 (Egypt – 2013–2017, 2021, Algeria – 2018, 2019, 2022, Senegal – 2018, Libya – 2019, 2023, Morocco – 2019, Tunisia – 2019, 2022), were caused by O/EA-3 topotype virus. Given the current epizootic situation in the region and the trade and economic ties between the Russian Federation and African countries, there is an urgent need to study foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) O/EA-3 topotype strains to facilitate the development of diagnostic and specific prevention tools against this dangerous disease.

Objective. A study of the biological properties of the exotic FMDV O/EA-3/Tunisia/2019 strain (lineage O/EA-3) isolated in North Africa.

Materials and methods. FMDV O/EA-3/Tunisia/2019 strain was isolated from cattle in Tunisia in 2019. A combination of cultural, serological, and molecular genetic methods was applied during the study. 

Results. Based on comparative analysis of the nucleotide sequences, this strain was identified as belonging to the O/EA-3 genetic lineage. The antigenic relationship (r1 ) of the O/EA-3/Tunisia/2019 strain with FMDV production strains ranged from 0.01 to 0.54. The studied strain accumulated in cattle to an infectious titer of 5.00 log10 ID50 /0.1 mL, and in pigs to 4.75 log10 ID50 /0.1 mL. The FMDV O/EA-3/Tunisia/2019 antigen served as the basis for producing strain-specific rabbit sera for FMD diagnosis, as well as a culture-derived, inactivated, monovalent, adsorbed vaccine capable of providing protection against infection with this exotic FMDV strain.

Conclusion. Biological properties of the FMDV strain (O/EA-3 lineage) isolated in North Africa were studied. In light of the close antigenic relationship (r1 = 0.49) between the O/EA-3 and O/ME-SA/PanAsia2 genetic lineages, the production strain O 2356/Pakistan/2018, which belongs to the O/ME-SA/PanAsia2 lineage, may be used to protect animals against infection with FMDV of the O/EA-3 genetic lineage.

Introduction. Foot-and-mouth disease remains one of the most significant transboundary viral infections of livestock, as evidenced by epizootic situation data over the past five years. Culture inactivated vaccines are used for the specific prevention of this disease. For the manufacture of emulsion vaccines, the use of oil adjuvants is essential. Currently, a wide range of these components is available on the global market, including a new product from the Indian company VITAVAC.

Objective. Comparative analysis of VITAVAC oil adjuvants formulated in inactivated foot-and-mouth disease vaccines.

Materials and methods. The following experimental samples of oil adjuvants were tested: VITAVAC 50 (Batch G-221), VITAVAC 70 (Batch G-223), VITAVAC 250 (Batch M-2508). The physicochemical properties of emulsion vaccines manufactured using these adjuvants were analyzed, and their innocuity, safety, and potency were evaluated in accordance with the requirements of the World Organisation for Animal Health.

Results. The most favorable combination of emulsion stability after long-term storage and a pronounced immune response was observed in an experimental vaccine sample formulated with VITAVAC 70 oil adjuvant. Vaccines based on VITAVAC 250 induced virus-neutralizing antibodies with a titer above 1.65 lg SN50 , but exhibited lower emulsion stability during storage. The vaccine based on VITAVAC 50 oil adjuvant induced lower levels of specific virus-neutralizing antibodies than the other vaccine variants. The results obtained suggest that oil-based adjuvants of the VITAVAC line, particularly VITAVAC 70, are promising candidates for use in the production of inactivated foot-and-mouth disease vaccines.

Conclusion. The results obtained support the view that VITAVAC 70 is the most promising adjuvant for use in the production of inactivated emulsion vaccines against foot-and-mouth disease for pigs. This product demonstrates comparable performance to the traditionally used oil adjuvants Montanide ISA 206 VG and Montanide ISA 61 VG across several parameters.

Introduction. Given the current epizootic situation and the specifics of livestock farming in the Republic of Dagestan, it is essential to monitor the implementation of preventive measures and improve methods of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) control to prevent its spread. Within this system of measures, qualified diagnosis is a key element. An integrated differential diagnostic approach using various tuberculosis testing methods in farms with different epizootic statuses is promising.

Objective. To compare the effectiveness of the proposed methods for bTB diagnosis and to summarise data on the circulation of tuberculous and non-tuberculous forms of mycobacteria in nature.

Materials and methods. Allergic tests were conducted using 1,768 cattle; serological tests included 1,634 serum samples in the complement fixation test and 2,127 samples in the indirect haemagglutination test. Bacteriological tests involved 63 biomaterial samples and 97 environmental object samples. The performance of various culture media in mycobacteria isolation was tested using 36 biomaterial samples from tuberculin PPD-reacting cows and heifers.

Results. The practical significance of the palpebral and intravenous tests was confirmed for identifying diseased animals and making initial diagnoses. The intravenous test also proved effective in some cattle. Serum antibody testing revealed high specificity of the complement fixation test for detecting anergic animals in long-term affected herds, whereas the indirect hemagglutination test demonstrated low specificity. Of the 63 biomaterial samples analysed, 46 cultures were isolated: 10 (21.7%) were identified as Mycobacterium bovis, and 36 (78.3%) as non-tuberculous species. Of the latter, 32 cultures (88.9%) were classified into group II and 4 cultures (11.1%) – into group III according to Runyon classification. Of the 97 environmental object samples analysed, 64 cultures were isolated: 4 (6.3%) were identified as Mycobacterium bovis, 35 (54.7%) belonged to group II and 25 (39.0%) – to group III of non-tuberculous mycobacteria according to Runyon classification. To assess the culture media performance, 36 biomaterial samples from tuberculin PPD reactor cows and heifers were studied. The 8 cultures isolated (22.2%) were identified as Mycobacterium bovis; 28 (77.8%) were classified as non-tuberculous mycobacteria of Runyon’s groups II (11 – 39.3%) and of group III (17 – 60.7%). As for growth of typical and non-tuberculous forms of mycobacteria, Lowenstein – Jensen medium showed the best growth properties.

Conclusion. A comprehensive study of animals using differential diagnostic methods, including serological tests, improves the effectiveness of differential diagnosis.

Introduction. Post-weaning period in pig production is a critical phase that determines the herd’s future productivity and health. Stress from dietary changes, regrouping, and altered microclimate leads to post-weaning syndrome. Its underlying mechanism is transient immunosuppression resulting from hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and increased cortisol levels. For this reason, it is essential to develop immunocorrective strategies during this period.

Objective. To assess impact of an oral polyvalent bacterial lysate immunomodulator (Bordetella bronchiseptica, Haemophilus parasuis, and Streptococcus suis) on hematological parameters and immune system activation of piglets.

Materials and methods. Sixty blood samples of piglets taken from April to July 2024 on a pig farm in the Moscow Oblast were tested. Laboratory tests were conducted at the Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy using a hematology analyzer. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica v.13.0.

Results. In a three-phase experiment involving experimental and control groups of piglets (n = 30), a course-based approach to Immbaclys C use induced pronounced changes in hematological parameters. A statistically significant and reproducible trend toward activation of the immunity lymphocyte component was revealed. All parameters remained within the normal range, indicating no negative impact of the tested medication on the hematopoiesis.

Conclusion. Three courses of Immbaclys C (14 days per one course, with a 21-day interval) induced a sustained immunostimulatory effect in piglets, along with im proved zootechnical parameters. Hematological analysis revealed no deviations from normal values, confirming good tolerability and safety profile of the medication

Introduction. Viral respiratory diseases pose a serious problem for the health of cats all over the world. Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) is the causative agent of a highly contagious infectious disease that induces upper respiratory tract infections, as well as conjunctiva and cornea ulcers. Feline herpesvirus 1 is considered the main etiological agent of respiratory infections in cats, and, according to experts, about 50–70% of respiratory infection cases are associated with this pathogen.

Objective. Isolation of feline viral rhinotracheitis agent from pathological material of diseased animals in cell culture; its identification and study of antigenic properties.

Materials and methods. To isolate the virus in vitro, a trypsinized primary feline embryo kidney cell culture was used, which was subsequently adapted to continuous feline kidney cell line CRFK. The causative agent of feline viral rhinotracheitis was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and real-time polymerase chain reaction using specific primers complementary to the amplified complementary DNA fragments. The virus neutralizing antibodies were detected in the sera of immunized rabbits by virus neutralization test using continuous feline kidney cell CRFK monolayer.

Results. It was found that feline viral rhinotracheitis agent is detected in the conjunctival, nasal, and oropharyngeal swabs. It is replicated with the pronounced cytopathic effect in the primary and subcultured feline embryo kidney cells and in continuous feline kidney cell culture CRFK. The infectious activity titre 72 hours post inoculation was (6.50 ± 0.25) and (7.40 ± 0.22) lg TCID50 /mL, respectively.

Conclusion. Feline herpesvirus 1 isolate obtained as a result of the study and designated as Lavr strain, can be used for the manufacture of diagnostic products and means of specific prevention of feline viral rhinotracheitis in cats.

Introduction. The causative agent of feline panleukopenia belongs to the Parvoviridae family; it is species-specific to felines and is not transmissible to humans. The particular danger of the disease lies in its rapid course and high mortality rate, especially among kittens, as animals under six months of age exhibit weakened immunity. The virus targets bone marrow and intestinal cells, causing severe inflammatory processes, dehydration, and sepsis.

Objective. To study the prevalence of feline panleukopenia in domestic cats in the city of Kislovodsk and to review current therapeutic methods for managing this infection

Materials and methods. The study focused on data from primary veterinary outpatient record of sick animals admitted to the veterinary clinic “Chip and Dale” in Kislovodsk during the period from 2020 to 2024. Clinical and therapeutic studies using polymerase chain reaction, veterinary rapid tests, and combined rapid tests were conducted in September 2025.

Results. Analysis of the nosological profile of infectious diseases in cats in Kislovodsk from 2020 to 2024 revealed that for five consecutive years, the most common disease was feline viral rhinotracheitis (357 recorded cases), followed by feline panleukopenia (226 cases). This paper examines several clinical cases of feline panleukopenia in detail, where the final clinical diagnosis was established based on a combination of clinical and laboratory data. Laboratory blood tests revealed decreased levels of leukocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets (pancytopenia). Due to the timely visits of the owners to the veterinarian and the subsequent compre hensive treatment of the kittens (infusion therapy, immunostimulants, antiviral therapy, antibiotic therapy, vitamins, antiemetics, antipyretics, analgesics, and probiotics), positive clinical dynamics were successfully achieved. Two weeks post-recovery, the animals were vaccinated, followed by treatment against ecto- and endoparasites a few days later. Booster vaccination (revaccination) was performed after 21 days.

Conclusion. When the first signs of disease appear in cats, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is necessary, and therapeutic measures should be com prehensive and prompt.

Introduction. Newcastle disease (ND) is reported in many countries worldwide, where it sometimes assumes an epizootic nature. Newcastle disease virus (NDV) genotype VII, which has been actively circulating in recent years, is highly virulent and raises concern due to its ability to undergo rapid mutation. In the context of intensive poultry farming, special attention must be paid to the specific prevention of this disease, including the use of effective vaccines to protect poultry flocks.

Objective. To determine the immunogenic activity of three inactivated Newcastle disease vaccines in chickens following challenge with NDV genotype VII.

Materials and methods. Three vaccines against Newcastle disease were tested: a monovalent vaccine (LaSota antigen), ARRIAH-AviNew Multi, and ARRIAH-AviNew-Flu Multi (containing ARRIAH G7 and LaSota antigens). The antigens were diluted with saline solution at ratios of 1:25, 1:50, and 1:100 or used undiluted, and then emulsified with Coralvac RZ 528 adjuvant. Each vaccine sample was administered at a volume of 0.5 cm³ intramuscularly into the pectoral muscle to 10 four-week-old egg-type chickens per group. The control group remained unvaccinated. The antibody titers were determined using the hemagglutination inhibition test at day 28 post-vaccination, and the chickens were challenged with a virulent strain of NDV genotype VII.

Results. All tested vaccines induced strong post-vaccination immunity against NDV by day 28 post inoculation to birds and met the requirements of the World Organisation for Animal Health. However, the ARRIAH-AviNew Multi and ARRIAH-AviNewFlu Multi vaccines demonstrated a higher level of protective efficacy following challenge with an NDV genotype VII isolate compared to the monovalent vaccine based on LaSota antigen.

Introduction. The global incidence of the diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant microorganisms is increasing annually. At present, measures are being developed and implemented to combat the spread of bacteria resistance to antibiotics. A key strategy in this effort is the systematic monitoring of microbial resistance.

Objective. To study the prevalence of antibiotic-resistance in Escherichia coli and other coliform isolates recovered from food product samples.

Materials and methods. Coliform isolates recovered from food and water samples were used for this study. The bacteria were identified by biochemical methods using API 20 E kit and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Antibiotic resistance was determined with disc diffusion method.

Results. A total of 2,667 tests of food and water samples for coliforms were carried out at the Vladimir Testing Laboratory of the Federal Centre for Animal Health in 2024; 134 coliform isolates were recovered. Tests of the recovered isolates for their antibiotic resistance showed high resistance rates to nalidixic acid, levofloxacin, cefalotin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline. Additionally, data on Escherichia coli isolates resistant to third-generation and fourth-generation cephalosporins are presented.

Conclusion. Coliform isolates showed 100% susceptibility to carbapenems. The recovered isolates exhibited the highest resistance to quinolones, fluoroquinolones, cephalosporins, and tetracyclines. Escherichia coli isolates demonstrated high resistance to quinolones, fluoroquinolones, and tetracyclines. Citrobacter spp. and En terobacter spp. isolates were resistant to penicillins and cephalosporins, while Cronobacter spp. isolates were resistant to penicillins, quinolones, and fluoroquinolones. Polyresistant coliforms were isolated during the study, they were predominantly detected in products of animal origin.

Introduction. Production of animal products is an essential component of the agro-industry. The concentration of numerous production facilities on animal farms, the increase in their area, high stocking density, and rapid restocking of livestock are all favorable factors for the spread of infections, leading to significant economic losses. To achieve high production targets, it is necessary to constantly maintain proper sanitary and hygienic status of animal farms, which is achieved through combined cleaning of all indoor surfaces (ceilings, walls, floors), equipment and tools, followed by mandatory disinfection. Therefore, the development and implementation of novel complex disinfectants become a relevant task, as this will ensure a high level of biological safety at agro-industrial establishments.

Objective. To study the biocidal effect of a new disinfectant against microflora from different resistance groups to chemical disinfectants under conditions simulating the production environment of livestock facilities.

Materials and methods. The biocidal effect of the new medicinal product was studied on test objects artificially contaminated with microorganisms. The test objects were made of cambric (with and without a protective substrate) as well as construction materials measuring 100 cm2 used in the construction of livestock facilities. Inactivated bovine blood serum was used as a protective substrate (to simulate production conditions).

Results. On smooth construction materials, the biocidal effect of the new disinfectant against microflora isolates of various resistance groups was achieved using the following application modes: 1.0% for 180 min, 2.0% for 120 min, and 5.0% for 120 min at a consumption rate of 250 mL/m2. On concrete construction materials, the effect was achieved at: 2.0% for 180 min, 3.0% for 180 min, and 6.0% for 240 min after double treatment with a 120-minute interval at an consumption rate of 400 mL/m2.

Conclusion. Based on the results of the studies, it was established that the tested disinfectant possesses high bactericidal activity against microorganisms with low, medium, and high resistance to chemical disinfectants under conditions simulating production environment of livestock facilities. Analyzing the data obtained, it can be concluded that further experiments to study the biocidal effect of the new disinfectant in actual conditions of livestock facilities are expedient for developing effective decontamination protocols for agro-industrial production facilities.

Introduction. Betulinic acid is a naturally occurring compound with significant potential for the development of anti-leukemia therapeutics. It demonstrates antiviral activity alongside a marked immunomodulatory effect, properties that can be potentiated through the introduction of a novel pharmacophore group into its molecular framework.

Objective. The study was aimed at evaluating the therapeutic antiviral activity of betulinic acid amide, as well as the immune response of bovine leukemia virus (BLV)-infected guinea pigs to its administration.

Materials and methods. Fifteen Agouti guinea pigs, 4–5 months of age, were used for the study. Ten animals received a single intraperitoneal inoculation of lymphocyte suspension from leukemic cows; the remaining five animals served as intact controls. On day 21 after infection, five of the infected animals were subcutaneously injected with betulinic acid amide at a dose of 40 μg/kg (group 1), whereas the other five infected animals were left untreated (group 2). Blood samples were collected prior to the treatment, and then at 14 and 28 days after treatment to assess cellular and humoral immune responses and for molecular biological studies.

Results. The study showed that the immune response of the guinea pigs to inoculation with the virus-containing suspension was characterized by a significant increase in lymphoid cell counts by day 49 of the experiment. This increase was caused by a 1.85-fold boost in B-lymphocyte and a 2.7-fold boost in cytotoxic T-lymphocyte proliferation. Administration of betulinic acid amide on day 21 post-infection resulted in suppression of B-cell and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte proliferation, 2.1-fold increase in myeloperoxidase and cationic protein activity in neutrophils, and stimulation of antibody production. However, the experimental drug failed to confer protection against the infection: specific fluorescence was detected with direct immunofluorescence assay and proviral DNA was detected in blood samples from 100% and 60% of the animals, respectively.

Conclusion. Administration of the betulinic acid derivative prevents immune dysregulation in BLV-infected guinea pigs as evidenced by normalized lymphoid cell counts and enhanced neutrophil functional and metabolic activity. These findings indicate that betulinic acid amide is a promising veterinary candidate for preventing the development of clinical and hematological leukosis in infected animals.