This is a global agreement which became effective 1st June 2007.

Mr. David Schofield, MRCVS, Schering-Plough Poultry Business Unit Director

Previously Aviguard had been marketed by Bayer Animal Health. Announcing the change, David Schofield, poultry business unit director at Schering-Plough explained, "We view Aviguard as an important addition to the Schering-Plough poultry portfolio. Through supplying our established coccidiosis vaccines, Paracox and Paracox 5 we are increasingly involved in all aspects of intestinal health and Aviguard represents a major opportunity to broaden protection against economically damaging conditions," he confirms.

Aviguard contains natural gut flora which promotes optimal intestinal health in chicken. Acting by means of a process known as 'competitive exclusion' Aviguard allows for a measurable reduction of salmonellae, necrotic enteritis bacteria and pathogenic E.coli.

MDL Sales and Marketing Manager Sue Reynolds is enthusiastic about the new arrangement. "I am looking forward to working with the team at Schering-Plough Animal Health and hope that together we can further advance Aviguard in the UK. The advantages derived from improved gut protection offers producers a very valuable tool with which to lower disease impact on their units."

The Schering-Plough Animal Health technical sales team are currently in discussion with Aviguard customers to manage the change. "It is very much business as usual for customers," explains Mr.Schofield. "We have advised producers of the new order and contact telephone numbers and we our doing our best to ensure a very smooth transition."