Journal article
A hybrid modeling approach to simulating foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in Australian livestock
RA Bradhurst, SE Roche, IJ East, P Kwan, M Graeme Garner
Frontiers in Environmental Science | FRONTIERS MEDIA SA | Published : 2015
Abstract
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious and economically important viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals. Australia's freedom from FMD underpins a valuable trade in live animals and animal products. An outbreak of FMD would result in the loss of export markets and cause severe disruption to domestic markets. The prevention of, and contingency planning for, FMD are of key importance to government, industry, producers and the community. The spread and control of FMD is complex and dynamic due to a highly contagious multi-host pathogen operating in a heterogeneous environment across multiple jurisdictions. Epidemiological modeling is increasingly being recognized as a valuable tool..
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Funding Acknowledgements
AADIS is a joint research venture between the Australian Department of Agriculture and the University of New England (UNE). The authors acknowledge both organizations for their support of the project. The authors would like to thank Dr. A.S.M. Sajeev who was a strong supporter of the project whilst Professor of Computer Science at UNE. The authors would also like to thank Dr. Rachel Iglesias of the Department of Agriculture for providing helpful comments on the manuscript. This work is funded under the Australian Government's Animal Biosecurity Response and Reform Program.