0
Australia would be unable to deal with a major outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, costing the agricultural industry up to $16 billion, a review of the country's infection contingency plans for the disease has found.
Australia has not had an outbreak since 1872. Department modelling found that losses, over 10 years, ranged from $7.1 billion for a small three-month outbreak, to $16 billion for a large 12-month outbreak. The reason for the grim forecast is that Australia does not have sufficient suitable human resources to manage anything other than a small foot-and-mouth incursion.
Among the dozens of recommendations is the need for better co-operation between states and the federal government, including on vaccination. Another item on the agenda is developing a national standard for domestic animal slaughter.
Friday October 28, 2011/ Stock Journal/ Australia.
http://sj.farmonline.com.au
