The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that the world economy is complex, and an infectious disease can cause widespread impacts in almost every industry. For animal producers, limiting the spread of infectious disease through biosecurity measures is more crucial than ever.

In this article, we’ll explore the top biosecurity challenges livestock farms face in today’s world.

Changes In National Regulations & Policies

Globalization, more international trade, and increased production demands have all heavily impacted biosecurity in recent years.

National and international laws continue to evolve to ensure biosecurity standards are met to prevent widespread illness or economic damage. For example, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic the Securing our Agriculture and Food Act was signed into law. This act is focused on preparedness efforts directed towards mitigated biosecurity risks.

Understanding the current national regulations, and international regulations if you plan to export, is fundamental to any farm’s operations. Individual states may also have their own biosecurity laws and regulations regarding everything from large beef producers to small, backyard farmers.

With recent cases of african swine fever impacting the global pork market and concerns over zoonotic diseases increasing as a result of the pandemic, there will likely be future national and international biosecurity regulations that impact animal producers.

Implementing Robust Monitoring Programs

Understanding the current state of global biosecurity and its impact on livestock production is important, but monitoring and prevention is key to any successful farm. A biosecurity plan and the proper equipment needed to implement best practices should be a top priority item. However, prevention is the foundation of a safe operation.

Robust monitoring programs are an essential part of future ag biosecurity measures. Future technology, like remote biomonitoring systems can help catch potential disease threats with minimal human exposure.

Advanced quarantine practices are also paramount to biosecurity. Designing swine barns with biosecure containment areas will become an increasingly important investment, particularly for large-scale operations.

Staying Ahead of Trends

In order to truly overcome emergent biosecurity challenges, animal producers must stay ahead of the curve. This means maintaining education on current biosecurity best practices and technology, but also being informed regarding current threats and mitigation efforts.

Organizations like the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, a part of the USDA, have established programs, like the Tactical Sciences Coordination Network, to establish biosecurity networks between researchers and farmers.

These programs are vital to identifying and mitigating zoonotic and non-zoonotic diseases before they become major threats. It’s important for animal producers to participate in large-scale efforts and collaborate with organizations to ensure their farms are following today’s best practices.

Biosecurity Equipment From Farmer Boy

Stay ahead of the curve with agricultural biosecurity equipment from Farmer Boy. Whether it’s the basics, like PPE, or more advanced equipment UV-C chambers and foggers, our selection of biosecurity products includes everything needed to maintain a safe farm environment.

Looking to retrofit your barn or build a new one for improved biosecurity? Learn more about our barn construction services and how our team can help with current best practices.