Critical vax for koalas

HUNDREDS of koalas will trial a new chlamydia vaccine that may play a significant part in the long-term survival of the species.

It’s estimated the disease affects more than half of koala populations across Australia, particularly in NSW and southeast Queensland.

The vaccine has passed two phases of testing, making it safe for koalas.

USC professor of microbiology Peter Timms said the vaccine produced a good immune response and level of protection and was now ready for phase 3 of the trial.