Controlling animal diseases
There are many prevention, control and eradication measures in place to protect your business, the industry and, in some cases, public health from animal-borne diseases.
Every keeper of livestock has a responsibility to care about the health and welfare of their own animals.
What can I do?
Some of the steps you can take to prevent introduction and dissemination of animal diseases are:
- Routine cleansing and disinfection of all equipment, protective clothing, vehicles, etc.
- Personal biosecurity.
- Restricting visitors access to the livestock area.
- Complying with the movement standstill period.
- Being alert to any disease symptoms.
- Reporting suspected disease to a vet.
How are they spread?
Infection can be easily spread by contaminated surfaces such as:
Direct contact with fallen stock or with other infected animals can also spread diseases. These can include dogs, cats and stray foxes which may carry infection without being infected.
Biosecurity measures can minimise the risk of an outbreak and spread of the disease.
How do I report a disease?
If you suspect your animals have any signs of a notifiable disease you must phone your local APHA office on 03000 200 301 without delay.
Further information
A list of main notifiable diseases is on Defra's web site.
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