Scientists approve worlds first chlamydia vaccine for Koala’s

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In Australia, the groundbreaking first vaccine designed to shield endangered koalas against chlamydia has received official approval, signifying a significant advancement in efforts aimed at conserving this unique species.

As a passionate supporter, I’m thrilled to share that the innovative, one-dose vaccine was crafted by the Veterinary Medicine Division at the University of the Sunshine Coast. This groundbreaking solution targets a devastating disease that accounts for almost half of all fatalities among our precious wild koalas.

For more than ten years, scientists have been tirelessly developing a vaccine that shields animals against urinary tract infections, blindness, infertility, and even death. This illness has been rampant among koala populations since the 1990s, with infection rates climbing as high as 100% in certain colonies along Australia’s east and southeast coasts. With an estimated population of only 50,000 to 80,000 wild koalas remaining, conservationists worry that the marsupial could disappear from parts of the country within a single generation due to this disease.

Instead of antibiotic treatments that can prove fatal for koalas due to their destructive impact on essential gut bacteria required for digesting eucalyptus leaves, the vaccine provides long-term immunity. Over the past ten years, trials have demonstrated positive outcomes. A study in 2024 revealed that this vaccine significantly reduced the chances of koalas developing symptoms during their reproductive years and decreased mortality from the disease by at least 65 percent.

Scientists have approved the world’s first vaccine for koala bear chlamydia

— TopMob (@TopMob) September 11, 2025

Vaccine gets approved

The vaccine effectively lessens the chances of contracting the illness, halts its advancement to severe disease stages, and occasionally alleviates symptoms. Over various generations, it has been thoroughly examined in numerous wild koala populations, as well as those in captivity and patients receiving treatment at wildlife hospitals.

As a passionate advocate for innovation, I’m thrilled to be part of this global endeavor where we’re making strides together. Our team comprises dedicated researchers from various institutions, including Canada’s University of Saskatchewan, the University of British Columbia, Dalhousie University, and the International Vaccine Institute. We have the honor of receiving support from the esteemed Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in our mission. Furthermore, we’re privileged to have backing from the Morris Animal Foundation, Rane Pharma, and animal health company Ceva Santé Animale, which have been instrumental in our progress.

Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, which is owned by the Irwin family following the late Steve Irwin, participated in the vaccine testing process as well. During these tests, koalas were vaccinated under real-world conditions, thus providing researchers with crucial information about the potential advantages of the vaccine. This was emphasized by conservationist Terri Irwin.

Starting from January 2026, the team intends to initiate a phased release of the vaccine, first focusing on wildlife hospitals and vulnerable groups. Our aim is to administer the vaccination for free, but we’ll need additional funding and donations to ensure it reaches as many people as possible.

Even though the vaccine is a significant advancement, scientists underscore that we need to tackle other factors threatening the survival of koalas, including deforestation, global warming, and bushfires, in order to ensure their long-term existence.

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2025-09-11 20:19