Mycoplasma bovis: A review of the ongoing phased Eradication Programme in New Zealand

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to research the ongoing M. bovis eradication programme in New Zealand in terms of its nature, progress and potential challenges. The eradication programme is in its very early stages having commenced in 2018. Therefore, it is difficult to assess right now whether it will ultimately be a success and whether the goal of fully eradicating the disease from the country will be achieved. It has been predicted that it will take ten years to complete a full eradication of M. bovis but the majority of the culling will be carried out by the end of the second year i.e. 2020. Following this, it is crucial for national surveillance programmes to be precise, rapid and efficient when tracking and tracing animal and risk goods movements. Biosecurity and control measures are essential in controlling the spread of disease and ensuring full eradication.