|
Perdue OK's transfer of non-infectious animal virus
Story Date: 4/30/2018
| |
Source: POLITICO'S MORNING AGRICULTURE, 4/27/18
A non-infectious version of the Foot and Mouth Disease virus can now be brought from the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, off the coast of New York, to the U.S. mainland for further vaccine development, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced Thursday. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue authorized transfer of the virus, which has been genetically modified so it presents no risk of being transmitted to livestock. The added protection allows FMD vaccine development to take place within the U.S. instead of overseas, so USDA can source things more quickly in the event of an outbreak, the department said.
"With this announcement, vaccine companies may now apply for USDA permits to continue their work with this specific modified, non-infectious FMD virus in the United States," APHIS said. "All permits granted would include appropriate biocontainment and use restrictions, and may be revoked if warranted."
|
|
|
|
