Surrey scientists get funds to tackle ‘growing biosecurity threat’

“Developing improved vaccines to protect poultry against E. coli will reduce reliance on antibiotics and limit the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance, safeguarding food safety and security,” he added.

The project – funded by the government and UK Research and Innovation – will develop an mRNA vaccine platform for use across major livestock species.

“This platform will help prepare for future epidemics, tackle antimicrobial resistance, and accelerate the development of next-generation animal vaccines,” a university spokesperson said.

The project will work to develop vaccines targeting other high-priority livestock diseases: influenza A virus (IAV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and bluetongue virus (BTV), the spokesperson added.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, external, X, external, and Instagram, external and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk , externalor WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.