Corrective action

Australia is well prepared if FMD entered its shores. The AUSVETPLAN, adopted at a federal level and implemented by state authorities, contains contingency measures in the event that FMD or another threatening animal disease was detected within Australia. With respect to FMD, the AUSVETPLAN’s policy to eradicate the disease within the shortest time while limiting the economic impact uses a combination of strategies;

• Stamping out
• Quarantine and movement controls
• Decontamination of facilities
• Tracing and surveillance
• Zoning
• Public awareness campaign.

Vaccination is not a preferred option for control of FMD due to its potential to extend market disruption (some markets regard vaccinated cattle as having FMD). However, in the unlikely event that the disease spreads over vast distances, vaccination may be used. As a precaution, Australia is a member of an international FMD vaccine bank.