Koalas are cute, furry, iconic – and dying of chlamydia. But how well does the approved vaccine work?

Queensland researchers say a published study contains ‘silly mistake’ that over-inflates vaccine’s efficacy, but the regulator is standing by decision to approve it

At wildlife hospitals across eastern Australia, many koalas brought in have distinctive brown patches on their bottoms – a sign of urinary incontinence and a painful inflamed bladder. Others have red, weeping eyes, pointing to a bacterial disease that can cause blindness in the endangered marsupials.

Chlamydia infection, also known as chlamydiosis, is the most significant disease affecting koalas. The culprit is most commonly the bacterium Chlamydia pecorum, which is spread via mating or close contact.