Alternative Onchocerca gibsoni detection and management in Cattle
| Project start date: | 01 March 2016 |
| Project end date: | 30 June 2018 |
| Publication date: | 06 March 2019 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grassfed cattle, Grainfed cattle |
| Relevant regions: | National |
|
Download Report
(2.3 MB)
|
|
Summary
Due to a perceived risk to public health, that dates back to the early 1900s when quarter beef was regularly exported to the United Kingdom, it was a DAFF (AQIS) requirement that all Onchocerca nodules be removed from infested beef. Nodules have no public health risk as infection is not transmissible to humans through consumption of affected meat. Based on anecdotal information from both inspection and company staff, the prevalence on beef nodules has been decreasing over the last 20 to 30 years.
Carton Meat Assessment records (Boneless Meat Inspection pre 2002) and overseas rejections also point to this downward trend in prevalence in finished product. Despite this information on loss to industry, regional risk and downward prevalence due to modern animal health management there has not been a proportional reduction in post-mortem interventions.
This project looks at alternate risk management of Onchocerca gibsoni by removing procedures and using alternative methods.
More information
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Food and Veterinary Service Pty Ltd |
