Vetech produces live coccidiosis vaccines for poultry under the trade name Immucox®. Coccidiosis is a significant disease that can result in high morbidity and reduced feed efficiency in poultry. With the enforced global reduction of in-feed anti-coccidial products, it is likely that vaccines will become even more widespread.

Marc Prikazsky, CEO of Ceva Sante Animale, said: "This move allows Ceva to expand our poultry vaccine range from respiratory to also include intestinal health. We're pleased to continue giving our business partners new options for keeping their operations healthy and productive."

Craig Wallace, director of Ceva's North American operations, said: "Bringing the Immucox products into the Ceva portfolio demonstrates our continued commitment to the poultry industry."

Mr Prikazsky continued: "From coccidiosis to Marek's to IBD, we are dedicated to helping our partners, and their customers, offer healthy, safe poultry products with the use of innovative vaccines.

"Poultry protein is an important food source around the world. Protecting the global supply of high quality poultry meat and eggs to the growing population is critical, and it's why Ceva continues to dedicate resources to poultry vaccination technology. Through our vaccines, equipment and services, Ceva helps protect both animal and human health."

Immucox vaccines for breeders, layers, broilers, roasters and turkeys are now distributed in over 40 countries worldwide. Production of Immucox will remain primarily in Canada. Ceva's US operations can be scaled, and the company plans to deploy certain technologies in the US with this specific virus strain.

Vetech was founded in 1983 in Rockwood, Ontario, by Dr Eng Lee and has since relocated its headquarters to its current location of Guelph, Ontario. The company manufactures Immucox vaccines and the Poultry Puck, vitaminised water in a gel-delivery system to supply chicks and poults with hydration.