C.H.I.C.K. Day 2012 was held at Shangri-la Hotel, Putrajaya on the 8th Mac 2012. It was initiated by Dr Amanda LIM, Area Manager of Ceva Animal Health Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd. with a warm opening speech on the vision of Ceva 'Together, beyond animal health'. This was followed by Professor Dr Mohd Hair Bejo, the Deputy Dean, Research and Graduates, University Putra Malaysia to officiate the event after a meaningful and informative speech.

The aim of the half day event was to expose the participants to current Newcastle disease condition globally with method and solution which can be adapted into the farming practice through the seminars. With more than 80 participants coming from all over Malaysia and from various backgrounds (poultry production, poultry health, regulatory authorities, regional press, research institute and university) the event created a unique opportunity to share information and experiences between guests and speakers about the current local situation as well as the use of vector vaccines to control Newcastle disease.

Dr Nitiwat KAEWPOOWAT, Regional Poultry Market Manager, Ceva Animal Health Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd. lead off with the first presentation entitled ‘Updates of ND Situation Worldwide’. He shared interesting facts on the epidemiological of Newcastle disease in the world and reported cases in Asia adding to the participants’ esoteric knowledge.

Second presentation given by Dr Christophe CAZABAN, Member of the Scientific Direction Innovation Strategy for Biological Business Unit with the most awaited topic, ‘Is Genotype-matched Vaccine Really Necessary?’. Trials revealed that there is no genotype-related improvement in protection, including the shedding control in healthy birds which are properly vaccinated. Followed through the presentation after a refreshing tea break was the topic, ‘Vectormune® HVT-NDV Trials and Experiences in the World’. Dr Christophe injected more trials and evidence on Vectormune® HVT-NDV in combating the disease worldwide.

Finally, Dr Marcelo PANIAGO, Regional Poultry Market Manager, Ceva Animal Health Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd., presented another topic of great interest among the participants. ‘Vectormune® HVT-NDV Trial in Malaysia’. Equipped with solid results, it became an eye opener to those in the hall as Vectormune® HVT-NDV induced a deeper protection and it was confirmed by the challenge results and serology shown in the UPM trial.

The end of this seminar marked positive respond from the participants reflected by a two ways interactive ‘question and answer’ session with the speakers. The seminars also gauged the participants’ opinion about the acceptance of the new vector vaccines to fight against the local ND problems in the fields through a simple survey.

C.H.I.C.K. Day 2012 was indeed a success and marked the starting point of Vectormune® HVT-NDV as a trustworthy solution in the country. Moreover, it contributed to the reinforcement of Ceva’s position in vector vaccine sector with more added value and worth invested products in the poultry industry.

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