Ovine Paratuberculosis Control in Australia Revisited

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Ovine Johne's disease (OJD) was a significant animal health concern in Australian rural communities.
• Abattoir surveillance indicates declining OJD prevalence, yet the disease continues to spread.
• Misinformation and varying producer attitudes complicate OJD control efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of OJD in Australia.
• To evaluate the impact of control measures, including vaccination and biosecurity.
• To discuss the global implications of OJD management and vaccination.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of abattoir surveillance data for OJD prevalence.
• Review of OJD extension programs and producer attitudes.
• Assessment of vaccination uptake and biosecurity practices.

Main Results:

• OJD prevalence has declined significantly, largely due to widespread vaccination programs.
• Improved biosecurity and risk-based trading may have positively influenced attitudes towards OJD control.
• Challenges remain in maintaining vaccination and biosecurity, especially as visible disease declines.

Conclusions:

• Vaccination is a key strategy for managing OJD in Australian sheep, improving animal health and producer livelihoods.
• Wider global adoption of OJD vaccination is recommended to reduce risks to the human food chain.
• Further research is needed to enhance vaccine efficacy and safety for livestock and handlers.