As the global poultry industry faces increasing pressure from infectious disease outbreaks – including the continued concern around avian influenza (bird flu) – the importance of strong diagnostics and effective vaccines has never been greater.

Researchers from the University of the Free State (UFS) – internationally recognised for their expertise in poultry bacterial pathogens – are directly contributing to improved disease control efforts beyond South Africa’s borders.

Prof Robert Bragg and Azil Coertzen from the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG) have established themselves as global leaders in research on Avibacterium paragallinarum, the bacterium responsible for infectious coryza – a highly contagious respiratory disease in chickens that poses serious risks to poultry health and productivity.

Through decades of specialised research, innovation, and collaboration, Prof Bragg has played a significant role in advancing scientific understanding of the pathogen, strengthening diagnostic systems, and supporting vaccine development worldwide.

Azil Coertzen, a PhD candidate in genetics, is currently conducting advanced research on Avibacterium paragallinarum and was recently invited to assist a vaccine production company in Morocco. The collaboration aimed to strengthen the company’s ability to culture, diagnose, and utilise the bacterium for effective vaccine development.

The visit focused on hands-on training and skills transfer. Together, Prof Bragg and Coertzen worked closely with company employees, providing practical guidance on correct culturing techniques, laboratory diagnostics, and safe handling procedures required for working with this fastidious bacterium.

This training is critical to ensure accurate identification and reliable propagation of Avibacterium paragallinarum for vaccine production.

The initiative comes at a crucial time, as Morocco has experienced a growing number of infectious coryza cases affecting poultry flocks. Strengthening local diagnostic and production capacity is essential to control the spread of disease and protect the poultry industry.

This collaboration highlights the importance of international scientific partnerships in addressing global animal health challenges. Through knowledge sharing, training, and applied research, UFS researchers are contributing meaningfully to improved disease control strategies, vaccine development, and enhanced poultry health management.