Biosecurity is all the measures taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. The greatest risks for disease to reach the farm include: new animals, farm visitors, equipment, vehicles, and supplies. Reducing the risk of your farm being infected by animal diseases is critical. An outbreak could result in lengthy quarantines, lost productivity, and even the loss of your entire herd or flock. Report serious or unusual animal health problems to your veterinarian, local extension office, USDA or WVDA animal health officials.
Animals should be purchased only from safe, established sources that can provide the health and test status of the herd. New animals should be isolated at least 300 yards away for 30 days before comingling them with the rest of the herd or flock. Any animals showing signs of disease should be isolated. Animals that are comingled at livestock markets, animal exhibitions or fairs and festivals present a biosecurity risk and should be isolated. Be aware of all wildlife exposure to your animals and control rodents and flies. Maintain vaccinations, parasite control, and identification for all animals
Minimize risk to the farm by knowing who is always entering and exiting your farm. Visitors should avoid direct contact with animals unless necessary and park away from animal areas. Provide footbaths with disinfectant or 10% bleach solution and allow 10 minutes of contact time. Livestock trailers and equipment should be cleaned and disinfected after each use and do not forget underneath. Biosecurity on the farm is up to you.
Resources:
Biosecurity on Beef Cow-Calf Operations www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/nahms/dairy/downloads/bamn/BAMN01_IntroBiosecurity.pdf
Biosecurity on U.S. Swine Sites www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/nahms/swine/downloads/swine2006/Swine2006_is_biosecurity_1.pdf
CWD Program Standards www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/animal_diseases/cwd/downloads/cwd-program-standards.pdf