Disease surveillance

NT livestock disease investigations

From January to March 2020, there were 74 livestock disease investigations in the NT. 31 cases were related to a detection of American Foulbrood in honeybees; see American Foulbrood.

Graph: NT livestock disease investigations January to March 2020

For a snapshot of national data, see the most recent issue of the Animal Health Surveillance Quarterly.

National Arbovirus Monitoring Program (NAMP)

The NAMP monitors important arboviruses (insect-borne) livestock viruses in Australia, in order to support trade, provide an early warning to producers and to manage potential risks to export. See the current NAMP map.

Arboviruses are spread by Culicoides midges and the distribution of these insects varies seasonally. In the NT, arbovirus activity occurs in the north while the south remains free. The boundary between these zones – the surveillance zone - runs across the southern Katherine and Tennant Creek/Alice Springs regions.

It is important to be able to justify the presence or absence of these arboviruses in the NT; for example, the NAMP has been a key tool for exporters
sourcing eligible for certain markets, such as Turkey.

Properties are encouraged to participate in the NAMP. Blood samples are required from thirty 12-18 month-old homebred cattle (steers or heifers), and Livestock Biosecurity Branch staff can collect these samples at a convenient time for you.

For more info, or to arrange testing on your property, see National Arbovirus Monitoring Program or speak to your local Livestock Biosecurity Officer.

Bluetongue zoning map


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