The concept of compartmentalisation.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary epidemiology
• Risk analysis
• Animal health economics

Background:

• Traditional trade regions and zones rely on geographical boundaries for animal disease risk management.
• Geographical boundaries are often insufficient due to epidemiological pathways that can breach them.
• There is a need for more robust biosecurity measures to ensure safe international animal trade.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define the concept of 'compartments' as an advanced risk management strategy for animal disease.
• To explore how compartmentalisation can enhance the safety of international animal trade beyond traditional methods.
• To provide guidance on identifying, documenting, and implementing compartmentalisation for trade.

Main Methods:

• Review of epidemiological science and risk analysis principles.
• Conceptual development of the 'compartment' model.
• Identification of key factors for compartment definition and implementation.
• Discussion of practical steps for establishing trade based on compartmentalisation.

Main Results:

• The 'compartment' concept offers a more effective risk boundary than geographical regions or zones.
• Compartments integrate all epidemiological factors for superior biosecurity.
• Seven factors are presented to guide the identification and documentation of compartments.
• Steps for implementing trade based on compartmentalisation are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Compartmentalisation provides a scientifically sound framework for managing animal disease risks in trade.
• This approach allows for clear epidemiological differentiation between populations, enhancing trade safety.
• Implementation requires adherence to management or geographical boundaries ensuring effective risk separation.