A world-first biodegradable vaccine to protect livestock from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has been developed through a $20 million, five-year research partnership between Meat & Livestock Australia, Tiba Biotech, and the NSW Government.
While Australia remains FMD free, modelling from Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) has estimated an FMD incursion could cost the Australian economy up to $80 billion. An incursion would have a catastrophic impact on trade, animal welfare and farm productivity.
“FMD is present in countries near to Australia and is front of mind for industry in terms of potential biosecurity risks,” MLA managing director Michael Crowley said.
“Vaccination may not necessarily be required in the event of a disease incursion, but this research demonstrates that the Australian industry is proactive and prepared.”
Researchers found that the new vaccine demonstrated strong, effective immune response and safety in preliminary trials in Germany. Vaccinated cattle did not contract FMD when exposed to the disease and, importantly, they did not shed the virus.
The new biodegradable vaccine uses mRNA to induce an immune response, rather than an actual virus. mRNA vaccines have been proven safe for animals and for consumers.
Following these trials, the vaccine must now undergo a rigorous evaluation process with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) before approval for use on livestock.
