Farm biosecurity, a series of management practices and measures designed to minimize or prevent the entry and spread of pests and diseases onto a farm, is drawing increased attention in recent years. Part of the growing awareness is due to diseases such as high pathogenicity avian influenza in poultry and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus in swine.
According to the Michigan Ag Connection, these practices should have the following key components:
- Keep Your Distance: Restrict animal access to people, wildlife and other domestic animals that could potentially be carrying disease. This includes separating new animals brought to the farm from other animals for a period of time before introducing them to the existing animals.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly cleaning equipment, washing hands, clothes and footwear before and after working with animals.
- Don’t Bring in Disease: Always clean and disinfect equipment/supplies before and after sharing with neighbors, as well as disinfecting items such as boots and vehicles after returning from another farm.
- Recognize Sick Animals: Early detection of unhealthy animals can prevent the spread of disease. Consult with your local, licensed veterinarian.