July 24, 2007

Australian scientists to find a cure for Glasser's disease

The Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries in Australia are conducting a three-year project on Glässer's disease which is currently threatening the multi-million dollar Australian pork sector.

The research will focus on the so-called 'controlled exposure concept' wherein one particular virus strain (causing the Glasser disease) is isolated per farm to form the basis of a farm specific live vaccine. A live vaccine will be applied thereafter on two major piggeries and will be available to the pig industry following testing.

A protocol has also been developed to easily assess and identify the strains present on the farm. This service is currently offered to Australian the pig industry.

A second alternative vaccine approach - based on a modified strain that can no longer cause disease - is also being pursued. Trials to evaluate this novel vaccine are currently being planned and will be undertaken at the Animal Research Institute in the near future.