A Comprehensive Biosecurity Program to prevent Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)

FMD is a highly contagious and devastating viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals. The primary transmission route is by direct contact with infected animals and indirect methods such as the airborne route. FMD can easily spread through contaminated feed and water, animal transport vehicles, equipment, clothing, and footwear.

Clinical symptoms of infection include fever, blister-like sores on the tongue and lips, in the mouth, on the teats, and between the hooves. Also, decreased milk yield, chronic mastitis, drooling, reluctance to move or lame animals, and permanent hoof damage.

This biosecurity program aims to prevent the introduction and spread of FMD.

1. Farm/Facility Management
   

   1. Ensure proper fencing and enclosures to prevent animal contact with wildlife and neighboring farms.

   2. Limit visitor access and require permission from management before entering the farm/facility.

   3. Designate specific parking areas for visitors.

2. Animal Movement and Identification
   

   1. Implement a strict animal movement policy, including:

      1. recording all animal movements on and off the farm/facility;

      2. ensuring all animals are properly identified (e.g. ear tags, tattoos).

   2. Quarantine new animals for at least 30 days before introducing them to the main herd.

3. Hygiene and Sanitation
   

   1. Ensure all personnel wash hands and feet before entering animal areas.

   2. Provide designated foot baths and hand sanitizers.

   3. Regularly clean and disinfect animal areas, equipment, and vehicles.

      1. remove all organic matter (manure, liquids, bedding, dirt, etc.) from the surface;

      2. wet with a high pressure jet (30-40 kg/cm²) + detergent solution (Kenosan 2%);

      3. allow 30 minutes contact time;

      4. rinse thoroughly with high pressure water;

      5. disinfection with low pressure jet (5-10 kg/cm²) + disinfection solution (Virocid 2%);

      6. allow 30 minutes contact time.

   4. Implement a manure management plan to prevent disease spread.

4. Vehicle and Equipment Management
   

   1. Ensure all vehicles and equipment are properly cleaned and disinfected before entering the farm/facility.

   2. Designate specific routes for vehicles and equipment to minimize contact with animals.

5. Feed and Water Management
   

   1. Ensure feed and water sources are secure and protected from contamination.

   2. Implement a feed and water testing program to detect potential FMD virus.

6. Surveillance and Monitoring
   

   1. Regularly monitor animal health and behaviour.

   2. Implement a reporting system for suspected FMD cases.

   3. Conduct regular FMD testing and surveillance.

7. Response Plan
   

   1. Develop a response plan in case of an FMD outbreak, including quarantine and isolation procedures.

8. Training and Education
   

   1. Provide regular training and education to personnel on FMD biosecurity and protocols.

   2. Ensure all personnel understand the importance of biosecurity and their role in preventing FMD.

9. Review and Revision

   1. Regularly review and revise this biosecurity program to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with industry standards and regulations.

For more information, contact a Lionel's Vet representative to arrange a farm visit to assess your requirements for implementing a biosecurity plan. By implementing this comprehensive biosecurity program, you can significantly reduce the risk of introducing and spreading Foot-and-Mouth Disease in your farm/facility.

A Comprehensive Biosecurity Program to prevent FMD

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