Australian Scientists Develop Revolutionary mRNA Vaccine to Protect Cattle from Foot and Mouth Disease

Australian researchers have achieved a world-first with the development of an mRNA vaccine designed to combat foot and mouth disease (FMD) in livestock. This highly contagious disease poses a serious threat to Australia’s agricultural industry, which has remained free of FMD for over 150 years.

Unlike traditional vaccines that use live virus, the innovative mRNA vaccine is synthetic and does not contain live virus, making it a safer option for Australian farmers. Trials conducted both locally and at a high-security laboratory in Germany demonstrated the vaccine to be 100% effective, preventing vaccinated cattle from contracting the disease even when exposed.

The new vaccine offers several advantages, including quicker production times, reduced refrigeration requirements suitable for warmer climates, and the capability to distinguish vaccinated animals from those infected. Researchers are also exploring similar mRNA vaccines for other diseases such as lumpy skin disease.

While the vaccine is still pending regulatory approval from Australian authorities—a process that may take months or years—it represents a significant breakthrough for biosecurity and livestock health in Australia. If approved, it is expected to be used strategically in the event of an outbreak rather than as a routine preventive measure across all herds.

This development offers hope to Australian farmers and reinforces the country’s commitment to maintaining its disease-free status while embracing innovative biotechnologies for animal health.