The role of biosecurity in the prevention of disease

As we enter spring, the risk of bluetongue is likely to increase on farm because the midge vector that spreads the disease has become active again after a lull during the winter (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency, 2024). Biosecurity can play an important role in the prevention of the spread of bluetongue and many other diseases including sheep scab, Johne's disease, bovine viral diarrhoea and avian influenza. Biosecurity measures can be defined as practical measures to reduce the spread of disease on and between farms.

Eradication of many diseases on farm is impossible without good biosecurity measures. While this seems obvious, sometimes going back to basics can have a big impact and this could be a good time to refresh the knowledge of clients and reiterate the importance of ensuring biosecurity is taken seriously. Good communication skills are essential when sharing these messages with clients, and livestock veterinarians play an important role in making sure these measures are understood.