Summary
- Intervacc completed evaluation of a US strain of Streptococcus equi prior to US clinical trials
- Researchers found the US strain behaved similarly to the strain used in European pivotal studies
- Strangles remains one of the most commonly diagnosed equine respiratory diseases in the US
- Company says findings support timelines for potential US registration of Strangvac
- Strangvac is already approved in the EU, UK, and several European markets
Intervacc AB announced it has completed evaluation of a US strain of Streptococcus equi, the bacterium responsible for equine strangles, as part of preparations for upcoming US clinical trials of its vaccine candidate Strangvac.
The study, conducted at the Gluck Equine Research Center in Kentucky, evaluated the US strain known as 20-091 and found it behaved similarly to the bacterial strain used in successful European pivotal trials. According to Intervacc, the findings may streamline development efforts and reduce costs associated with US registration studies.
Strangles is considered the most frequently diagnosed respiratory disease in horses in the United States and is known for its high transmissibility and operational impact on equine facilities.
Researchers Highlight Clinical Relevance
Intervacc Chief Scientific Officer Andrew Waller said most US S. equi strains, including 20-091, show a “100% identity” match with the antigens used in Strangvac.
Researchers at the Gluck Equine Research Center also noted that the lower-dose challenge model used in the study may better reflect natural field exposure conditions in horses.
“New outbreaks of strangles are reported every day in the US and effective prevention strategies are urgently needed,” said Dr. Yosra Helmy, associate professor of One Health and Infectious Diseases at the Gluck Equine Research Center, in the announcement.
US Expansion Remains on Track
Intervacc CEO Carl-Johan Dalsgaard said the successful outcome helps keep the company’s targeted US launch timeline on schedule while improving development efficiencies.
Strangvac is currently approved in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein, and has been launched commercially across multiple European markets.
Information sourced from an Intervacc press release.
