Biosecurity—as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Katie Ockert<ockertka@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

Biosecurity related to 4-H projects is a matter of high priority. Taking simple precautions will protect animals, members and consumers.

4-H members, volunteers and staff should have an understanding of basic biosecurity procedures to help limit and stop the spread of animal diseases. Following the simple and effective steps in this article will help protect your animals and other farms. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development provided the following tips for practicing biosecurity, regardless of your farm’s size and scope.

Keep your distance

Restrict animal access to people, wildlife and other domestic animals that could potentially be carrying disease. In addition, any time new animals are added to a farm there should always be a period of time in which they are separated from other animals. This ensures they are healthy before introducing them to the established animals.

Keep it clean

Washing your hands, clothes and footwear thoroughly before and after working with animals and regularly cleaning and disinfecting your equipment is essential to preventing disease on any farm.

Don’t bring in disease

Think twice before sharing equipment or supplies with neighbors. If you decide to share equipment with others, always clean and disinfect equipment before and after sharing. Disinfect boots, vehicles and other items after returning from another farm.

Recognize a sick animal

Early detection of unhealthy animals can help prevent the spread of the disease among your animals and in your community. It is always wise to consult with your local licensed veterinarian.

Separate newly acquired animals and animals that have been taken off the farm

Separate animals that are new to your farm or that have been off the farm from animals that were already there. New or traveling animals may bring new diseases onto your farm. To prevent the spread of disease to your entire herd or flock, simply separate new and traveling animals from the rest. Take care of animals that have always been on the farm first to help stop the spread of disease.

These easy-to-follow, everyday practices will help reduce the spread of pathogens among our animal communities and help keep your 4-H project safe from disease.

To learn more about Michigan 4-H Animal Science Programs, please visit Michigan State University Extension's Michigan 4-H Animal Science page.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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