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.
Reducing environmental contamination including regular cleaning, maintaining drainage and controlling pests can lower the risk of disease transmission on farm. Hygiene measures, for example avoiding bringing contaminated equipment and vehicles on farm, are key.
The introduction of new animals into a herd is a major risk point for the introduction of disease. Quarantining new animals and possibly screening for certain diseases after an incubation period can have a big impact. For some diseases – such as bovine viral diarrhoea and Johne's – it is possible to purchase animals from herds that are certified as disease-free which can reduce risk.
A factor that is often forgotten in biosecurity is the role that neighbours can play. Maintaining boundaries between neighbouring herds is very important. It is no use being biosecure in every way and then discovering cows nose-to-nose with the herd next door as a result of a poorly maintained boundary.
The annual health and welfare review can be a great opportunity to discuss biosecurity with farmers. Biosecurity will be a key part of the forthcoming endemic disease control and eradication programmes due to launch in summer 2024 (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 2024).