New Issue of Healthy Animals Now Online

By Laura McGinnis
January 15, 2009

The Agricultural Research Service today posted a new issue of Healthy Animals.

This quarterly online newsletter compiles ARS news and expert resources on the health and well-being of agricultural livestock, poultry and fish.

Each quarter, one article in Healthy Animals focuses on a particular element of ARS animal research. The current issue examines efforts to improve national surveillance for swine influenza virus.

Other research highlighted in this issue includes:

" Parasite parentage. ARS scientists trace Toxoplasma parasite's family tree.

" Hoppy and healthy. Hops extract may reduce Clostridium in chickens.

" Off the wall. Modified lignin could benefit livestock feed.

Professionals interested in animal health issues may want to bookmark the site as a resource for locating animal health experts. An index lists ARS research locations covering approximately 70 animal health topics. These range from specific diseases, such as Lyme disease, to broad subjects like nutrition or parasites. The site also provides complete contact information for the more than 25 ARS research groups that conduct studies aimed at protecting and improving farm animal health.

To receive an e-mail alert about each future issue's posting online, contact Laura McGinnis, ARS Information Staff, (301) 504-1654, or sign up online.

ARS is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific research agency.