Significant questions remain regarding the effectiveness of badger vaccination programs in controlling bovine tuberculosis (TB) in cattle, according to a new policy briefing by researchers. They are calling for increased monitoring of vaccination impacts, a thorough review of existing evidence, and enhanced collaboration with farmers to maximize program effectiveness.
Researchers emphasized that while there is strong evidence that the BCG vaccine protects badgers themselves, the impact of operational vaccination programs on reducing disease levels in cattle remains limited. Any potential benefit to cattle is likely contingent on sustained and extensive vaccination coverage, coupled with effective cattle management strategies. The briefing states that "major questions remain about how many badgers are being vaccinated, what impact vaccinating badgers is having on disease levels in cattle, and how confidence in vaccination can be improved among farmers and veterinary professionals."
Niall McKeown, a lecturer in life sciences at Aberystwyth University and vice-chair of the British Ecological Society's Wales policy group, described bovine TB as "one of the biggest animal health challenges facing Wales." He cautioned that "Badger vaccination should not be presented as a stand-alone route to eradicating bovine tuberculosis." McKeown stressed the need not just for more vaccination, but for programs that are "better targeted, measured and evaluated."
To address these evidence gaps, researchers propose a combination of non-invasive genetic monitoring, sett surveys, camera traps, and movement data. This approach could help estimate local badger populations, determine the proportion of the population reached by vaccination efforts, and identify areas where coverage is insufficient. The ultimate goal is to ensure that vaccination programs contribute effectively to the overall control of bovine TB.