For this reason, a study was undertaken to re-assess inactivated ASFV preparations with state-of-the art
adjuvants. Inactivated preparations of ASF virus (ASFV) “Armenia08” were adjuvanted with either
PolygenTM or Emulsigen®-D, respectively, and used to immunize six weaner pigs two times with a threeweek
interval. Six weeks after the first immunization, animals were challenged with the homologues
highly virulent ASFV. Although ASFV-specific antibodies were detectable in all but one vaccinated animal
prior to challenge, no protective effect of immunization was observed. All animals developed acute-lethal
ASF and had to be euthanized within eleven days post challenge. A slightly accelerated clinical course in
vaccinees could even indicate an antibody dependent enhancement, which could also influence efficacy
of other vaccine approaches.