September 15, 2009

The Institute for Animal Health (IAH), based in Compton, UK, has announced to focus its research effort on viruses affecting livestock and poultry, together with supporting scientific disciplines.

 

The IAH will investigate viral diseases affecting all of the UK's economically important livestock species such as cattle, poultry, sheep and pigs.

 

The institute will move to a new laboratory complex at Pirbright as soon as possible, by spring 2013 at the latest.

 

By combining virus research at Compton, on diseases such as bird flu and Marek's disease, with established research at Pirbright on diseases like bluetongue and foot-and-mouth disease, IAH will be better placed to enhance its position as a national UK centre of excellence in tackling diseases that threaten the UK's economy and wellbeing.

 

Research on bacteria and parasites of animals currently conducted at IAH Compton will no longer be pursued by the Institute.

 

IAH will be working with the scientists in these areas to fully explore how this research can be supported at other institutions. It is intended that the Compton site will close.