Letter: Be aware of new veterinary mRNA vaccines

Letter to the editor

A warning to pet owners: The USDA recently approved mRNA vaccines for dogs and cats. The product line from Merck Animal Health, branded as Nobivac NXT, includes RNA vaccines for canine influenza and feline leukemia. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, “the animal RNA particle vaccine footprint has already expanded beyond Canine Flu and FeLV in Canada, where 3-year Nobivac NXT RNA particle rabies vaccines are already being marketed for dogs and cats.” Rabies vaccinations are required for cats and dogs in Alachua County.

These vaccines have NOT undergone longitudinal studies to determine potential harms to both pets and humans. They have been fast-tracked by the USDA.  

I’ve contacted several veterinary clinics in the area to inquire whether or not they are or will be using any of these mRNA vaccines, in light of the lack of appropriate testing. None of them have answered my question.  

The next time your veterinarian recommends a vaccine for your pet, ask to see the package insert and check whether the vaccine uses mRNA technology. If the lack of long-term testing of these mRNA vaccines concerns you, ask your veterinarian to use a traditional, well-tested non-mRNA vaccine.

Colon Taylor, Gainesville

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