Scientists have identified the most vulnerable entry points for a potentially catastrophic cattle disease to enter Australia, with wind carrying the virus to Queensland’s northernmost tip flagged as a primary concern. Research from the University of Queensland (UQ) has pinpointed the Cape York Peninsula as a high-risk zone for the windborne arrival of lumpy skin disease (LSD) virus.
The study, published in the journal Nature’s Scientific Reports, also highlights Port Hedland in Western Australia’s Pilbara region as another significant potential entry point, primarily due to shipping activities. The threat of LSD virus to Australia’s agricultural sector is substantial, with analysis suggesting it could inflict a staggering $7 billion loss in its first year alone.
Lumpy skin disease is a viral illness that affects cattle, causing painful lesions, fever, and significant weight loss. It is transmitted by insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. While the risk of the disease entering Australia is currently considered low by experts, this new research provides crucial insights into specific geographical areas and times of year that warrant heightened biosecurity surveillance.
Pinpointing High-Risk Entry Points
Professor Ricardo Soares Magalhães, an author of the study, explained the practical application of the research: “These maps can pinpoint locations that, in particular times of the year, could be intensified for vector surveillance.” This means biosecurity agencies can strategically deploy resources to monitor for the disease and its carriers more effectively.
Cape York Peninsula: A Windborne Threat
The northern tip of Queensland, the Cape York Peninsula, has been identified as a particularly concerning area for the windborne transmission of LSD virus. This is because strong winds, especially during the summer months, can carry infected insects over the sea and onto Australian shores. This natural pathway presents a unique challenge for biosecurity efforts.
Port Hedland: A Gateway for Disease
In Western Australia, the risk is more associated with human trade and travel. Port Hedland, a major international shipping hub, has been identified as a high-risk location. The virus could potentially hitch a ride on cargo or vessels arriving at the port.
“This is an important finding because Port Hedland is a major entry point in terms of trade volume,” Professor Soares Magalhães stated. “That could be another opportunity to focus the attention to that area there to monitor the mosquito circulation, the vector circulation in those locations.” Dampier, another port in the region, has also been flagged as a moderate risk.
Broader Surveillance Needs
Beyond these specific hotspots, the research also indicates a moderate to high wind risk at the northernmost point of the Northern Territory. This suggests a need for comprehensive surveillance across Australia’s northern coastline.
Industry Welcomes Enhanced Surveillance
The Australian livestock export industry has welcomed the findings, emphasising the importance of being aware of potential threats. Greg Pankhurst of the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council commented on the research, stating, “I think this initiative by UQ is imperative for the industry to get a little bit of an idea of where the disease is, and let’s hope it never does, if it does cross our shores.”
Mr. Pankhurst, who also consults for Lampung Livestock operating in Indonesia, stressed the urgency of addressing the spread of LSD virus. He recently witnessed the disease firsthand in Indonesia, where it was first detected in 2022.
“I still spend a lot of time in Indonesia. I was in Indonesia last week, and I saw lumpy skin disease,” he said. “Wouldn’t it be good to make sure it doesn’t come ashore? And the only way we can do that is to slow it down or help the Indonesians eradicate it on their side.”
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Biosecurity
While the research highlights potential vulnerabilities, Professor Soares Magalhães reassured the public that robust surveillance measures are already in place across Australia. “We’ve got ample surveillance happening across the board,” he confirmed.
The UQ study provides a vital tool for refining these existing biosecurity efforts, allowing for more targeted and efficient monitoring of high-risk areas and times. By understanding the likely pathways of introduction, Australia can strengthen its defenses against this economically devastating disease, safeguarding its valuable beef and dairy industries. The ongoing collaboration with neighbouring countries, such as Indonesia, will also be crucial in a united front against the spread of lumpy skin disease.
