Surveillance of vectors and vector-borne pathogens in cattle farms in Northern Taiwan
Yu-Ju Lin
Abstract
Global climate anomalies, habitat changes, increased international trade and globalization have contributed to the rising incidence of emerging vector-borne diseases. However, systematic surveillance data on animal vectors and their associated pathogens in Taiwan remain limited. Lumpy skin disease (LSD), first reported in Asia in 2019, rapidly spread across the region and was confirmed in Taiwan in 2020 (Kinmen) and 2021 (Linkou, New Taipei City), indicating increased transmission risk. This project conducted systematic surveillance of vector species and associated pathogens in cattle farms in northern Taiwan. Three farms in the Linkou area were selected for monthly sampling. Collected vectors were classified into mosquitoes, flies, and biting midges, followed by pathogen detection and analysis. None of the samples tested positive for bovine ephemeral fever or lumpy skin disease from 2023 to 2025. These findings provide baseline data to support disease surveillance control and prevention strategies.
Molecular epidemiological study of bovine tuberculosis in Taiwan cattle
Chen-Shen Huang
Abstract
Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic zoonotic disease caused by Mycobacterium bovis, primarily affecting ruminants such as cattle and deer. Transmission to humans occurs via aerosol inhalation, direct contact, or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. In Taiwan, bTB is classified as a Category B animal infectious disease. The current national policy follows a "regular screening and culling" strategy, establishing a rigorous monitoring mechanism for dairy cows, goats, and deer. Regarding diagnostic techniques, the Intradermal Tuberculin Test (ITT) is the standard method used for international trade and adopted in Taiwan, and it effectively detects early-to-mid-stage infected animals. While ELISA antibody testing is not a standard diagnostic tool, it serves as a supplemental method to monitor humoral immune responses in mid-to-late-stage infections. Our laboratory’s primary mission involves bacterial culture and molecular identification of suspected cases; notably, genotyping technology has now evolved toward high-resolution Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis. Following the implementation of the "Bovine Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Action Plan" in 2023, the number of bTB cases has gradually declined. However, given that Taiwan reported over 6,000 human tuberculosis cases in 2024—including infections caused by M. bovis—maintaining stringent livestock-level control measures remains vital for safeguarding public health.
Report on Attending the 2025 Global Foot-and-Mouth Disease Research Alliance Scientific Meeting in Turkey
Cheng-Ju Pan
Abstract
The Global Foot-and-Mouth Disease Research Alliance (GFRA) was established in 2003 by five major international research institutions with the aim of integrating global research resources on foot and mouth disease (FMD). By bringing together experts and research institutions worldwide, the Alliance promotes the development and application of diagnostic technologies, control strategies and tools, and antiviral agents for FMD, while also facilitating the exchange of knowledge and technologies to support the global prevention, control, and eradication of the disease. At present, the Alliance comprises 31 partners, 14 collaborators, and 16 stakeholders. As the global epidemiological situation of FMD becomes increasingly complex, timely information exchange among research institutions in different countries has become essential for preventing the spread of outbreaks. Veterinary Research Institute (VRI), Ministry of Agriculture, Taiwan, joined the GFRA as a collaborator in August 2019 and, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in March 2023, officially became a partner member of the Alliance. Taiwan, Penghu, and Matsu have been recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health as an FMD-free zone without vaccination. Participation in GFRA-related activities helps VRI stay informed of international disease trends and technological advances, maintain Taiwan’s FMD-free status, strengthen connections with the global research community, and contribute professional expertise to worldwide FMD research and disease control.