26 BIOSECURITY
Biosecurity in Livestock Farming
By Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas, BVSc & AH, MS(Edin.)
also aiding in the prevention of introducing pathogens into a herd, region or country. In the recent years, the scientific discipline of Biosecurity has become of major importance in the veterinary sector, particularly due to the outbreak of diseases as well as intentional introduction of disease-causing pathogens in to sovereign territories, which in other words, is also called Bioterrorism.
Some of the benefits of employing Biosecurity measures include: 1. Optimization of Animal Health and Welfare 2. Improvement of Animal Productivity 3. Reduced production and Input costs 4. Enhanced value of Herd 5. Guaranteed increase in total revenue It is highly recommended to have a biosecurity plan in place
F
ood security and stability has become one of the major concerns for countries all over the world, especially in the recent era of rising global tensions. This in turn has furthered the emergence of many livestock farms to sustain the local demand for dairy and meat products in the market. However, not all livestock farms are totally successful in generating the necessary yield and maintaining good herd health. Outbreaks of diseases are common on livestock farms and they negatively impact the economic viability of the project, but also adversely affect the welfare and health of animals. Hence, effective biosecurity measures are of utmost importance in maintaining herd health and generating revenues. Biosecurity measures can be defined as management practices that prevent spread of pathogens (disease-causing organisms) from infected animal to susceptible animals, thereby
LIVESTOCK & POULTRY ME
OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2020
