A new study in rural southeastern Australia will study lamb mortality in the wake of drought conditions, reports Australia's ABC network. Animal health problems began last year with observed iodine deficiency, a rarity in the area. Veterinarians and public health officials are trying to assess why young livestock are dying.

The survey will help reassure international trading partners that Australian lamb is healthy and will be available in normal quantities.

Perhaps it will turn out that IDD is a "leading indicator" of animal health.