Biosecurity - Preventing the Introduction and Spread of Foot and Mouth Disease
Good biosecurity should be practised at all times, not just during an outbreak. Taking the right measures in the early stages of an outbreak e.g. before we know disease is in the country, can help prevent or reduce its spread.
A summary of advice
- Keep everything clean – materials like mud or bedding on clothes, boots equipment or vehicles can carry the virus from farm to farm or between different groups of livestock on the farm.
- Don’t wear work clothes to sales or shows. Wear clean protective clothing and footwear for use solely on your own farm.
- It is essential that you clean yourself, your vehicle and everything you carry thoroughly when you move between different groups of livestock on the farm.
- Avoid visiting other farms unless absolutely necessary.
- Do inspect animals regularly (at least daily) for signs of disease.
- Keep different species of livestock separate where possible.
- Avoid moving animals from one part of the farm to another if possible, particularly between out farms and conacre
- When handling your animals, be aware that sheep do not always show obvious signs of the disease and you could inadvertently infect other animals.
- Wash hands after contact with livestock.
- Make sure you have approved disinfectant and cleaning material ready at your farm entrance, so that essential visitors can disinfect themselves before entering the premises and as they leave.
- Prevent any non-essential visits to your farm.
A one page Biosecurity flyer on how to help prevent the introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease to Northern Ireland can be viewed here.
For further information a full version of the Biosecurity Code for Northern Ireland Farms can be viewed by using this link.
Anyone suspecting Foot and Mouth Disease must immediately inform their local Divisional Veterinary Office or their local (PVP) Private Veterinary Practice. For other FMD related queries please contact the DARD Helpline 028 90524999.