The role of biosecurity in cattle health

Preventing the spread of disease

Covid-19 has made the world aware how self-isolation, social distancing and increased sanitisation helps slow the spread of infection. Similar biosecurity measures help prevent disease spread in livestock too, as well as protecting agricultural workers and visitors.

Biosecurity should be a nuts-and-bolts part of modern-day farming. It is central to all CHECS disease reduction programmes, as is working with the herd veterinary surgeon. The CHECS Technical Document (covering BVD, IBR, Leptospirosis, Johne’s Disease and Neospora) and the CHECS Bovine TB Technical Document detail the specific biosecurity conditions and requirements to which programme participants must commit.

Why Biosecurity?

Biosecurity focuses on controlling and restricting the movement of animals, people, and vehicles to and from areas where cattle are kept, the contact between different groups of animals and practising strict hygiene.

The four ‘basics’ of biosecurity

If you’re not a closed herd, buy cattle from known sources of an equivalent or higher health status.

Ensure strict isolation post-purchase to prevent potential disease spread to the rest of the herd.

Control movement of people, animals and vehicles that could introduce infection to your farm.

Clean and disinfect materials, equipment and people coming onto the farm as well as those already there.