Search Results (19)

Biosecurity is essential in livestock farming to prevent the spread of diseases, ensure animal welfare, and maintain farm sustainability. In Portugal, small ruminant farms are predominantly extensive and small-scale, and most of them are familiar, especially in the northern and inland regions. Thus, biosecurity implementation on these farms is low due to factors such as an aging livestock farmer population, poor training, limited veterinary support, and economic constraints. This study, the first to assess biosecurity on Portuguese small ruminant farms, evaluated compliance levels and the influence of sociodemographic factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted between July 2023 and April 2024, through structured interviews with 276 farmers. A 32-question checklist covering nine biosecurity categories was used to assess compliance. The results revealed poor implementation of key biosecurity measures, particularly cleaning and disinfection, quarantine protocols, and visitor control. Inadequate premises infrastructure, including the absence of quarantine areas, isolation facilities for sick animals, and farrowing rooms, further hampered disease prevention. Compliance was influenced by farmers’ age, education level, herd size, and production. Larger farms, particularly dairy farms, demonstrated better biosecurity practices, likely due to better management and infrastructure. This study highlights the challenges of implementing biosecurity measures on small-scale, extensive farms and argues that standardized plans are ineffective. Instead, region- and farm-specific strategies are needed, considering the socioeconomic realities of farmers. Improving farmers’ education and access to veterinary services is crucial. Furthermore, public policies should provide financial incentives and educational programs to improve biosecurity without compromising farm viability. Strengthening biosecurity on small ruminant farms is vital to protecting animal and public health and ensuring the long-term sustainability of rural communities in Portugal. Full article

Milk has been consumed by humans for thousands of years for its nutritional properties. In recent years, raw milk demand has increased, valued for its authenticity and connection to local traditions. In Italy, the sale of raw milk is allowed exclusively through direct sale from the producing farm to the final consumer, either at the producing farm itself or through vending machines. However, the consumption of raw milk is not without risks. Among these, microbiological ones are relevant. These can lead to severe symptoms, particularly in vulnerable populations. For this reason, although consumers are advised to boil raw milk before consumption, producing farms in Italy are required to meet the microbiological criteria outlined in the Provision of 25 January 2007. In this retrospective study, the results of the analyses performed on 355 raw milk samples collected in Liguria between 2014 and 2023 for the detection of Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli O157 were analysed to better characterise the associated risk for consumers. The samples were collected during official controls by the local veterinary health services at vending machines of seven producing farms. Overall, six samples tested positive for C. jejuni, while only one sample tested positive for Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, Serovar Veneziana. Listeria monocytogenes, S. aureus, and E. coli O157 were never responsible for non-compliances. Interestingly, three of the six samples positive for C. jejuni derived from the same producer. In farms where positive samples were detected, certain structural and/or operational non-compliances were identified. It can be concluded that, although the scenario in question does not present any cause for concern, it is nevertheless essential to implement a series of preventive measures in order to guarantee the safety of raw milk. These measures include the implementation of biosecurity practices, the maintenance of strict hygiene protocols during milking, and the adherence to the cold chain distribution protocol until the final stage of distribution. Full article

This study explores the critical challenges the livestock sector faces, particularly those related to biosecurity, animal welfare, and antibiotic use restrictions. It highlights the need to implement advanced information and communication technologies to enhance operational sustainability and decision-making. We introduce the Biorisk^® External platform, a cloud-based visit control system designed to optimize biosecurity management by accurately tracking visitor activity through QR codes and GPS geolocation. During a 6-month study period from July to December 2023, we analyzed visits to 142 different swine production sites and 30 vehicle movement patterns. The analysis revealed trends in visitation patterns and compliance with biosecurity SOPs. The software categorized visits as authorized (A), not authorized with access (NAWA), and not authorized without access (NAWOA), providing a framework to assess biosecurity risks. Additionally, network analysis identified interconnected farms, which were classified as ‘superspreaders’, highlighting their considerable risk of disease transmission. This study advocates for the integration of digital systems in livestock operations to improve biosecurity measures, facilitate real-time data input, and support informed decision-making. By enhancing biosecurity protocols through technology, the livestock industry can better safeguard animal health, increase operational efficiency, and reduce potential economic losses associated with disease outbreaks. Full article

Veterinary coaching was tested to assess its efficacy in promoting adherence to biosecurity procedures. Poultry farmers (n = 13) in Belgium were profiled using ADKAR^®, coached and audited prior to and 6 months after coaching. The ADKAR^® (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement) profiling technique identified 5/13 participating farmers with relatively low scores (≤3) for one or more elements that block change (biosecurity compliance in this case). Education was the only demographic variable that influenced knowledge scores. Through the Biocheck.Ugent^TM methodology, farm biosecurity was assessed and benchmarked to allow for tailored guidance. The farmer, farm veterinarian, and coach defined a farm-specific action plan that covered infrastructure, site access, staff/visitors, purchase policies, transport and depopulation, feed and water supplies, flock management, cleaning and disinfection between flocks, and measures between houses. From a total of 49 proposed actions, 36 were adopted. Purchasing policy had the highest (100%) and cleaning and disinfection had the lowest compliance (38%). Time, cost, and feasibility (e.g., inadequate farm layout) were the main reasons cited for not implementing action points. Overall, biosecurity improved significantly (p = 0.002) from 67.1 ± 5.7% to 70.3 ± 5.7% (mean ± Std. dev). The study, hence, presents convincing proof of how coaching can lead to new solutions not previously considered. Full article

This paper describes the selection and validation of supporting measures (SMs) aimed at enhancing biosecurity compliance within Italian poultry farms. A tailored methodology, based on a stakeholders’ survey involving farmers and advisors, included a virtual farm tour, group discussion, and farmer coaching. Virtual farm tours and group discussions were delivered during two meetings targeting meat and egg production stakeholders, separately. Coaching was validated in 26 pilot farms (PFs) by assessing farmers’ attitudes towards change (i.e., ADKAR^®) and farms’ biosecurity score (i.e., Biocheck.Ugent^TM) before and after a minimum six-month period. A total of 20 out of 26 farmers agreed to implement at least one action plan (AP). Full implementation of the agreed APs was observed in ten farms, while others only partially implemented (n = 7) or did not implement (n = 3) the improvement. Most APs focused on enhancing house hygiene locks (n = 7), followed by bacterial auto-control after cleaning and disinfection (n = 4). Scoring tools indicated minimal or no variations in farmers’ attitudes towards change and farm biosecurity. Virtual farm tours and group discussions were found to be effective in fostering interaction and facilitating the exchange of experiences and knowledge among farmers and stakeholders of poultry production. Coaching indicated that farmers might prefer implementing minor changes possibly influenced by time and cost constraints associated with structural interventions. These limitations could have also impacted the scores of the farmer/farm. The findings of this study provide a foundation for further application of SMs to improve biosecurity in Italian poultry farms. Full article

Mycelium-based green composites (MBCs) represent an eco-friendly material innovation with vast potential across diverse applications. This paper provides a thorough review of the factors influencing the production and properties of MBCs, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term sustainability goals. It delves into critical aspects such as fungal species selection, substrate type selection, substrate preparation, optimal conditions, dehydrating methods, post-processing techniques, mold design, sterilization processes, cost comparison, key recommendations, and other necessary factors. Regarding fungal species selection, the paper highlights the significance of considering factors like mycelium species, decay type, hyphal network systems, growth rate, and bonding properties in ensuring the safety and suitability of MBCs fabrication. Substrate type selection is discussed, emphasizing the importance of chemical characteristics such as cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and the C: N ratio in determining mycelium growth and MBC properties. Substrate preparation methods, optimal growth conditions, and post-processing techniques are thoroughly examined, along with their impacts on MBCs quality and performance. Moreover, the paper discusses the importance of designing molds and implementing effective sterilization processes to ensure clean environments for mycelium growth. It also evaluates the costs associated with MBCs production compared to traditional materials, highlighting potential cost savings and economic advantages. Additionally, the paper provides key recommendations and precautions for improving MBC properties, including addressing fungal strain degeneration, encouraging research collaboration, establishing biosecurity protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing storage conditions, implementing waste management practices, conducting life cycle assessments, and suggesting parameters for desirable MBC properties. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing MBCs production and provides guidance for optimizing processes to achieve sustainable, high-quality composites for diverse applications. Full article

Poultry producers’ attitudes towards biosecurity practices were assessed by using the ADKAR^® (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement) behavioral change model. Conventional poultry producers (n = 155) from different production types including broilers (n = 35), layers (n = 22), breeders (n = 24), turkeys (n = 19), ducks (n = 23), free-range broilers (n = 11), free-range layers (n = 11), and hatcheries (n = 10) from seven European countries were scored for each ADKAR element (1 = total absence to 5 = perfect fulfilment). Each country performed selected interventions (e.g., coaching, participatory meetings, etc.) to improve biosecurity compliance. After the interventions, significant change was observed in three of the four attitude elements. The overall mean scores ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$ ± SD) obtained during the initial assessment (n = 130) were 4.2 ± 0.6 for Awareness, 4.1 ± 0.7 for Desire, 3.8 ± 0.8 for Knowledge, and 4.0 ± 0.7 for Ability, whereas after intervention, the scores were A = 4.3 ± 0.6, D = 4.2 ± 0.7, K = 4.1 ± 0.7, and Ab = 4.1 ± 0.7. The Reinforcement component was only evaluated after the change and obtained a score of 3.7 ± 0.7 on average. Identifying the elements influencing poultry producers and their behavior related to farm management decisions was useful in guiding our educational interventions to effectively change their behavior. Full article

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is one of the leading causes of foodborne infections associated with broilers and laying hens. Portugal has had the lowest notification rates of salmonellosis in recent years, due to the vaccinations of layer and breeder flocks and strict compliance with biosecurity measures. However, data about the genetic diversity of S. Enteritidis in Portugal are scarce. In this study, 102 S. Enteritidis isolates selected from human (n = 63) and non-human sources (n = 39) were characterized by serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility, and whole genome sequencing. The S. Enteritidis population was mainly resistant to fluoroquinolones, and a sole isolate showed resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins. ST11 was the most frequent sequence type, and three novel STs from human isolates (ST9236, ST4457, and ST9995) were assigned. Several Salmonella pathogenic islands (SPI) and Putative SPI were present in the genomes, namely SPI-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14, C63PI, CS54_island, and 170 virulence genes were identified. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains from Portugal are genetically heterogeneous regarding sample type, collection date, and genetic content. This study increases the available data, essential to a better characterization of strains in a global context. Full article

(1) Background: African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and fatal haemorrhagic disease in domestic pigs and wild boars, causing significant economic loss to the swine industry in the European Union. The genotype II of African swine fever has spread in many European countries since the virus was detected in 2007 in Georgia. In Poland, the genotype II of the ASF virus was confirmed on 17 February 2014 in the eastern part of the country and appeared to have been transmitted to Poland from Belarus. Poland has been particularly affected by ASF epidemics in the last decade, resulting in a significant decline in the Polish pig population. Wild boars are the main reservoir of the African swine fever virus (ASFV), but human activities such as transportation and illegal animal trade are the primary reasons for the long-distance transmission of the disease. (2) Conclusions: During the nine years of ASF in Poland, multiple measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus among the wild boar population via the passive and active surveillance of these animals. With regard to pig farms, the only effective measure for preventing the spread of ASF is the efficient enforcement by state authorities of the biosecurity standards and the farmers’ compliance with them. Full article

As a global health problem, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crosses national borders, leading UN (United Nations) multilateral agencies to call for all countries to improve the stewardship of antibiotics in humans and animals. South American countries have changed their regulations regarding antibiotic use in livestock production. This literature review examines how far the five largest meat-producing countries in South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay) have come in terms of the relevant legislation. Rules on market entry (marketing authorization and official distribution systems) are already set in all countries examined. Four countries do not allow growth promoters based on critically important antibiotics, and countries have also begun to set guidelines and minimum welfare and biosecurity requirements to reduce the therapeutic demand for antibiotics. Nonetheless, there are aspects related to the distribution, use, and disposal of antibiotics that need to be developed further. In conclusion, legislation in South American countries is moving towards the goals set by UN multilateral agencies, but more can be done. Differences between countries’ rules and the gold standards set by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), World Health Organization (WHO), and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reveal possible adaptations to the countries’ realities. Further studies must examine compliance with the legislation already set and investigate other tools that can be used alongside legislation as a driving force to change stakeholder behaviour. Full article

The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited (PFR) supports a large kiwifruit breeding program that includes more than twenty Actinidia species. Almost all the kiwifruit accessions are held as field collections across a range of locations, though not all plants are at multiple locations. An in vitro collection of kiwifruit in New Zealand was established upon the arrival of Pseudomonas syringae pv. Actinadiae-biovar 3 in 2010. The value of an in vitro collection has been emphasized by restrictions on importation of new plants into New Zealand and increasing awareness of the array of biotic and abiotic threats to field collections. The PFR in vitro collection currently holds about 450 genotypes from various species, mostly A. chinensis var. chinensis and A. chinensis var. deliciosa. These collections and the in vitro facilities are used for germplasm conservation, identification of disease-free plants, reference collections and making plants available to users. Management of such a diverse collection requires appropriate protocols, excellent documentation, training, sample tracking and databasing and true-to-type testing, as well as specialized facilities and resources. This review also discusses the New Zealand biosecurity and compliance regime governing kiwifruit plant movement, and how protocols employed by the facility aid the movement of pathogen-free plants within and from New Zealand. Full article

In a previous study, a semi-quantitative risk assessment was developed to rank pig holdings in terms of likelihood of introducing African swine fever virus (ASFV) by assessing their compliance with biosecurity and exposure to geographical risk factors. The method was initially developed for confined pig holdings, but given that ASF is endemic in wild boar of several countries, we modified the approach to make it suitable for free-range farms as well. In the current study, a total of 41 outdoor pig farms were assessed in an area where exposure to wild boar was generally high (density from 2.3 to 10.3 wild boar per Km²). As expected, non-compliance with biosecurity measures was frequent in outdoor farms, and the frequency of non-compliance indicated that the absence of adequate separation of pigs from the external environment was the major weakness in the farms assessed. In 46.3% of them, there was no fence or, if present, it was not adequate to avoid contact with wild boar. However, the approach adopted proved to be suitable for identifying intervention priorities to mitigate the risk of ASFV spread in free-range pig herds and for identifying the weaknesses of individual farms, as recommended by EFSA in 2021, which suggests implementing tools to improve biosecurity by favoring higher-risk farms. Full article

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI, Gs/Gd lineage) was introduced to Europe in 2005 and has since caused numerous outbreaks in birds. The 2020–2021 season was the hitherto most devastating when considering bird numbers and duration in Europe. Surveillance data, virologic results and epidemiologic investigations from the 2020–2021 outbreaks in Sweden were analysed. Subtypes H5N8 and H5N5 were detected on 24 farms with poultry or other captive birds. In wild birds, subtypes H5N8, H5N5, H5N1, H5N4, H5Nx were detected in 130 out of 811 sampled birds. There was a spatiotemporal association between cases in wild birds and poultry. Based on phylogeny and epidemiology, most of the introductions of HPAI to commercial poultry were likely a result of indirect contact with wild birds. A definite route of introduction to poultry could not be established although some biosecurity breaches were observed. No spread between farms was identified but airborne spread between flocks on the same farm was suspected. Our findings exemplify the challenges posed by the continuously changing influenza viruses that seem to adapt to a broader species spectrum. This points to the importance of wild bird surveillance, compliance to biosecurity, and identification of risk factors for introduction on poultry farms. Full article

Biosecurity in poultry farms represents the first line of defense against the entry and spread of pathogens that may have animal health, food safety, and economic consequences. The aim of this study was to assess biosecurity compliance in poultry farms located in a densely populated poultry area in North East Italy. A total of 259 poultry farms (i.e., broilers, turkeys, and layers) were surveyed between 2018 and 2019 using standardized checklists, and differences in biosecurity compliance between the poultry sectors and years (only for turkey farms) were tested for significance. Among the three sectors, turkey farms showed the highest compliance. Farm hygiene, infrastructure condition, cleaning and disinfection tools, and procedures were the biosecurity measures most complied with. Some deficiencies were observed in the cleanliness of the farm hygiene lock in broiler farms, as well as the presence of the house hygiene lock in broiler and layer farms and an adequate coverage of built-up litter in turkey and broiler farms. In conclusion, this study highlighted a generally high level of biosecurity in the visited poultry farms (probably due to the stringent national regulation and the integration of the poultry industry) and identified some measures that still need to be improved. Full article

A reduction in antimicrobial use (AMU) is needed to curb the increase in antimicrobial resistance in broiler production. Improvements in biosecurity can contribute to a lower incidence of disease and thereby lower the need for AMU. However, veterinary advice related to AMU reduction or biosecurity is often not complied with, and this has been linked to the attitudes of farmers. Behavior change promoted by coaching may facilitate uptake and compliance regarding veterinary advice. Thirty broiler farms in Belgium and the Netherlands with high AMU were included in this study for 13 months. For each farmer, the attitude towards AMU reduction was quantified using an adjusted Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement (ADKAR^®) change management model, and farm biosecurity was assessed with the Biocheck.UGent^™ tool. Subsequently, farmers were coached to improve disease prevention and antimicrobial stewardship. After the individual coaching of farmers, there was a change in their attitudes regarding AMU, reflected by an increase in ADKAR^® scores. Biosecurity levels improved by around 6% on average, and AMU was reduced by 7% on average without negative effects on performance parameters. Despite these improvements, no significant association could be found between higher ADKAR^® scores and lower AMU. Further investigation into sociological models is needed as a tool to reduce AMU in livestock production. Full article