Development of strategies for early detection of respiratory microbial infections possibly imported to Australia by humans and animals. The impact of global terrorism, SARS and Avian influenza underlines the importance to Australia of having advanced early-warning systems for airborne disease threats. Our new technique will provide continuous monitoring, rapid detection, and viability reporting on pathogenic microorganisms transmitted by air. The technique is non-invasive and is feasible to anal ....Development of strategies for early detection of respiratory microbial infections possibly imported to Australia by humans and animals. The impact of global terrorism, SARS and Avian influenza underlines the importance to Australia of having advanced early-warning systems for airborne disease threats. Our new technique will provide continuous monitoring, rapid detection, and viability reporting on pathogenic microorganisms transmitted by air. The technique is non-invasive and is feasible to analyse much larger populations of humans and animals with their minimal disturbance. This will benefit Australia and protect the country in the areas of public and animal health, and defence against bioterrorism or biowarfare. The technology has worldwide export potential, creating new high-tech enterprises and jobs.Read moreRead less