Good biosecurity should be 'ongoing' - Welsh deputy minister
A new film has been developed to help farmers safeguard animal health and reduce the risk of disease through improved biosecurity.
Launching the film at the Royal Welsh Show, chief veterinary officer (CVO) Christianne Glossop said: "Biosecurity is our first line of defence against serious notifiable infectious diseases. It should be a vital part of daily life, helping to ensure that animals stay healthy and that businesses are profitable."
Raising awareness is a key priority, she said, adding that a survey would be run during the show to find out how the farming community views and applies biosecurity.
"This survey will help us to better appreciate the current biosecurity challenges that are being faced on farms.”
The film, created by Lantra, covers a number of areas, including how disease spreads, livestock movement and the handling of fallen stock.
Rebecca Evans, Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, launched the film at the Lantra stand alongside the CVO.
“As this e-learning package shows, minimising the impact animal disease has on your business while increasing resilience is fundamental to protecting livestock and livelihood," she said.
"Good biosecurity on farms should be an ongoing process. Taking appropriate preventative action has year-round benefits, to individual businesses, the wider economy and the environment."
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.
