What is Biosecurity?
"Biosecurity" describes the protection of animals and humans from infectious disease. Good biosecurity will reduce/prevent the introduction of new diseases or pathogens onto an operation and reduce/prevent the movement of infectious diseases within the operation.
Learn more about implementing biosecurity practices on your farm at: www.healthyagriculture.org
Why is biosecurity important?
Any infectious disease introduced onto an operation can have a devastating effect on cash flow and value of the species effected. Biosecurity should be a high priority in day-to-day management decisions. Pseudorabies, tuberculosis, Johne's disease and brucellosis are just a few of the diseases that can play a devastating role on an operation. Infectious diseases can occur at the farm or industry level and severely limit or even eliminate marketing options, which directly effects cash flow. The components of a good biosecurity program are management practices that address control points to increase the health status and profitability of an operation.
What is a control point?
An avenue or area of opportunity where specific biosecurity steps can help reduce the risk of introducing infectious disease agents or vectors into an operation. Control points are the "holes" in the biosecurity "dam." An effective biosecurity program addresses multiple control points to target weaknesses in an operation's disease control plan.
What are the areas of concern or control points owners should consider?
Some of the key sources of disease contamination can be viewed as "control points" or avenues where preventative steps must be taken. The following list provides some basic steps that can be taken to help prevent disease introduction.