Methods to assess on-farm biosecurity in Europe and beyond

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Animal Science
• Agricultural Biosecurity

Background:

• Biosecurity assessment methods (BAMs) are crucial for controlling disease transmission in animal farming.
• Understanding the current practical application and diversity of BAMs is essential for effective disease prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and categorize biosecurity assessment methods (BAMs) currently employed in animal farms across multiple countries.
• To analyze the diversity in objectives, implementation, and outcomes of existing BAMs.

Main Methods:

• A structured, translated online questionnaire was distributed to country representatives within the BETTER Cost Action project.
• Data on 74 BAMs from 28 countries were collected (December 2022 - July 2023).
• Descriptive analysis and multiple correspondence analysis were used to cluster BAMs.

Main Results:

• 74 distinct biosecurity assessment methods (BAMs) were identified across 28 countries.
• Most BAMs were country-specific, with only three used internationally.
• Four distinct clusters of BAMs were identified based on objectives, evaluators, and feedback types.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of biosecurity assessment methods (BAMs) in practice.
• Identified BAMs clusters offer insights into variations in their application and feedback.
• This research serves as a foundation for future studies evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different BAMs.