Government publishes Framework to strengthen UK veterinary vaccine availability
11 September 2025
Access to effective veterinary vaccines is vital to protect animal health and welfare, and therefore to One Health, food security and the economy.
Through the publication (11th September 2025) of the Statement of Intent (SoI) on UK Veterinary Vaccine Availability, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) have demonstrated a commitment to working alongside the veterinary sector to support vets having access to the vaccines they need.
The SoI sets out a strategic framework for future cross-sector action to address the mismatch between supply and demand for existing veterinary vaccines and facilitate the pipeline of innovative products to address existing and emerging therapeutic gaps. Overall, the Framework calls for a transition towards a more resilient approach that prioritises preparedness to safeguard against future risks that have the potential to adversely impact animal and human health.
BSAVA contributed to this strategic framework which proposes four integrated strategic themes covering innovation, manufacture, supply and uptake, and working in partnership. It outlines the workstreams and activities that will deliver these themes across the animal health sector.
Christine Middlemiss, CVO UK said “Vaccines are essential to prevent disease in our livestock and companion animals. I welcome this strategic approach to support our vets and animal keepers to have access to effective vaccines when they need them”
BSAVA looks forward to working with the VMD and other stakeholders to determine the process through which a five-year multi-stakeholder UK Action Plan will be developed, governed and implemented. The intention is to publish this agreed UK Action Plan within the next year, which will underpin the ultimate aim of creating evidence-based solutions for sustainable vaccine access.
Find out more about the VMD announcement: Government publishes framework to strengthen UK veterinary vaccine availability
Further information on the work that BSAVA does in relation to vaccines includes BSAVA Policy’s contribution to the WSAVA Essential Medicines List for cats and dogs which covers vaccines. https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-essential-medicines-for-cats-and-dogs.pdf and BSAVA’s Scientific Position Statement (SPS) on vaccination https://www.bsava.com/position-statement/vaccination/