Harnessing science to support Mycoplasma bovis eradication

Harnessing science to support the Mycoplasma bovis eradication

This week in Wellington, the Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group (SSAG) brought together around 75 key people for a workshop to develop the science plan that will prioritise Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis) eradication research and help inform science funding decisions.

The attendees included local and international experts from science, veterinary, and educational organisations, industry, and government agencies.

“M. bovis eradication has many complexities. We are therefore drawing on a range of disciplines, social, biophysical and technological, to ensure we have the right priorities for the science plan,” said Dr John Roche, Chair of the SSAG.

By drawing on the collective knowledge and expertise of the workshop participants, the SSAG will develop a robust science plan that will make a significant contribution to phased eradication.

“We have a real opportunity to eradicate the disease from our shores. All our testing so far shows we are making real progress, and this remains an achievable goal. Stepping up the science in an integrated and aligned way to get rid of the disease is critical.”

During the two day workshop the group focussed on understanding entry pathways; diagnostics; epidemiology; understanding the pathogen; direct impact of the disease; biological control and management; human behaviour; data; effective communication; and economic and social impact of the disease.

The science plan will be published and made available to the public later this year.

For more information on the SSAG please see the MPI website https://www.mpi.govt.nz/news-and-resources/media-releases/science-group-to-help-mycoplasma-bovis-eradication-efforts/.

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