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Disease Control Programs
Disease Surveillance programs - ABTBSP
Australian Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Project (ABTBSP) – 2007-2010
This project is an extension of surveillance activities following
- Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign (BTEC) 1970-1997
- Tuberculosis Freedom Assurance Program (TFAP-1) 1998-2002
- Tuberculosis Freedom Assurance Program (TFAP-2) 2003-2006
- National Granuloma Submission Program (NGSP)
Bovine TB is an infectious chronic respiratory disease that affects cattle, water buffalo, deer, goats and other animals. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis. Lesions (granulomas) form in the lymph nodes, lung, liver and other regions of the body leading to weakness, anorexia, difficulty breathing and cough. Symptoms may not be seen until the disease is advanced.
Australia achieved Free Area status for bovine TB in December 1997. This is a historic milestone in the eradication of bovine TB from our country. In the Northern Territory the last case in cattle was detected in 1999 and in buffalo in 2002. No cases were detected during TFAP-2 and Australia continues a surveillance program to maintain international recognition as a bovine TB-free country.
- Investigation of granuloma lesions detected at export abattoirs by AQIS
- TB testing of live animals for export
- Investigation of granuloma lesions detected during the slaughter of cattle, buffalo, deer and camels for the domestic market
- Investigation of livestock displaying symptoms consistent with bovine TB.