July 2024
Infectious diseases can have a devastating impact on the productivity of any livestock operation. Virtually every disease results in productivity losses, and in some cases, these losses can be substantial, particularly in larger operations where more animals are at risk. Production and quality can decrease, resulting in negative financial consequences.
BIOSECURITY GUIDELINES
The following biosecurity guidelines should be taken into consideration:
Disease familiarity
To prevent the spread of diseases, farmers need to have basic knowledge about the common diseases that are prevalent in their area – this includes symptoms and treatments.
Contact with wildlife
Livestock should have minimum access to cats, dogs and wildlife – all of which can spread diseases.
Isolating new additions
When buying animals, ensure that you know their disease status. Ask for a veterinary certificate to prove that the new livestock are free from diseases. Follow these steps:
Controlling traffic
Employees or visitors, especially those who have contact with animals from other livestock operations, can introduce disease agents from another farm via their boots, clothing, vehicles or other equipment. Follow these directions to prevent this:
Sanitation
Understanding and implementing waste management procedures, as well as maintaining clean operating facilities and equipment, are critical biosecurity management tactics for which all employees should share the responsibility. These are important rules to implement:
Vaccination plan
Vaccinating against the most economically devastating diseases is added insurance against disease outbreaks.
Colostrum
Newborns need time to develop antibodies and therefore must rely on antibodies obtained from the mother via colostrum, which immediately helps to protect the youngsters.
Newborns should get 10% of their body weight through high-quality colostrum within the first twelve hours of their lives. Within six to nine hours after birth, they lose 50% of their ability to absorb antibodies via the colostrum. After 24 hours, virtually all antibody absorption ability is gone. Make sure you deworm youngsters and ensure the drinking water is not stagnant.
Mortality
Animal deaths represent the least desirable health outcome. Once a death has occurred, it is important to determine the cause to prevent future deaths and improve the health of the herd.
Publication: July 2024
Section: Pula/Imvula
Author: RED MEAT INDUSTRY SERVICES