Biosecurity risk

The unit location, including the distance from other pigs or a potentially infected site is a very important factor affecting a unit’s biosecurity. However, since changing the location to reduce the risk of infection is rarely an option, the unit should be carefully assessed to evaluate the potential risks and steps taken to minimise the risk as far as possible.The most common method of disease transmission is direct pig-to-pig contact, with the highest risk of introducing a disease usually through infected stock.

Other methods that can spread diseases include:

• Airborne e.g. windborne spread from neighbouring unit
• Mechanical e.g. vehicles, machinery and equipment
• People, footwear and clothing
• Birds, rats, mice, insects and other animals (domestic, farm and wildlife)
• Contaminated feed, water, semen, bedding etc.

The method of transmission depends on the individual disease. Before any disease can be transmitted enough live organisms must come into contact with the pig. Biosecurity involves minimising or diluting this risk. Hygiene, cleaning and disinfection are therefore integral parts of any biosecurity programme. A biosecurity programme should form part of your herd health plan and you should develop a routine for reassessing the risks at regular intervals. 

To arrange a complimentary Alltech Pig ASSIST audit for your herd, please contact us at pigsolutions@alltech.com.