TOP BIOSECURITY STEPS

INFECTIOUS diseases are a drain on any herd – but simple biosecurity steps can dramatically reduce the risk of transmission.

Whether producers are looking to control Johne’s, BVD or TB, many of the UK’s health assurance scheme protocols rest on biosecure principles. This means that farmers who adopt them are not only reducing the risk of one disease, but all infectious diseases.

According to Sarah Tomlinson at Westpoint Farm Vets, who advises CHeCS (Cattle Health Certification Standards) on bovine TB, the first step is straightforward: Minimise contact with infectious animals. She explained: “That may be other cattle, badgers or deer and involves good fencing and quarantine procedures, as well as basic measures like cleaning water troughs regularly and keeping feed away from wildlife.”

It’s also important to identify and remove diseased cattle from the herd, and avoid cross-contamination through muck spreading, for example.

“The benefits to adopting such high standards and becoming accredited include improved health and productivity, higher value sales of stock, and a clear route to disease eradication,” she added.

For further information, please visit the website www.checs.co.uk.