BONUS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2025

Biosecurity is a critical aspect of dairy farmmanagement, particularly in South Africa, where diverse climates and farming practices can impact livestock health and productivity. Effective biosecurity measures help prevent the introduction and spread of infectious diseases, safeguarding herd health and the quality of dairy products. Biosecurity on dairy farms - are we up to speed? Chris Taylor - Technical Specialist: Dairy Here are key biosecurity measures that should be implemented on dairy farms in South Africa: Farm access control Restricting access to the farm is one of the primary biosecurity measures. Unauthorised personnel, vehicles, and equipment can introduce pathogens. Installing gates, locks, and clear signage helps control who enters the farm. Visitors should be required to sign in and follow strict hygiene protocols, such as disinfecting footwear and wearing clean clothing provided by the farm. Quarantine procedures Newly acquired animals should be quarantined for a minimum of 30 days before integrating them into the main herd. This isolation period allows for monitoring any signs of illness and administering necessary vaccinations or treatments. Quarantine facilities should be located away from the main herd and have separate feeding and watering systems. Vaccination and health management A robust vaccination programme is essential to protect against common diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, tuberculosis, and brucellosis. Regular health checks and prompt treatment of sick animals are crucial. Maintaining detailed health records helps track the health status of each animal and enables informed decisions about herd management. Sanitation and hygiene Thorough cleaning and disinfection of calf facilities, equipment, and vehicles reduce the risk of disease transmission. Milking parlours, in particular, should be cleaned and sanitised regularly to prevent mastitis and other infections. Ensuring that workers follow strict hygiene practices, such as washing hands and wearing protective clothing, further minimises risk. Feed and water safety Providing clean, uncontaminated feed and water is vital. Feed should be stored in a way that prevents contamination by rodents, birds, Autumn 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 22