Fresh Science

Detecting asthma in horses Using a face mask, Adelaide researchers have a new way to detect a major hidden equine health issue. Up to 80 percent of horses – including racehorses and showjumpers – suffer from a form of asthma that affects their performance and wellbeing. Researchers led by veterinarian Surita Du Preez from the…

A new test for detecting multiple parasites in koalas has been developed by a Perth veterinarian and post-doctoral scientist. The technology will help us understand why so many of the iconic Australian species are becoming sick and dying. Koalas have suffered population declines of over 50 per cent in some Australian states.

Researchers at the CSIRO’s Australian Animal Health Laboratory have developed a new test for foot-and-mouth disease that involves no infectious viral material and can differentiate between infected and vaccinated animals. This ‘DIVA’ test could transform how foot-and-mouth disease is controlled in future, because it’s so inexpensive and does not require infectious virus to produce the…

Doctoral student Jacqueline Burgess from La Trobe University has identified odour molecules associated with the small brown stomach worm.