BFSA Tightens Control: New Biosecurity Recommendations for Farms Due to Infectious Disease Risk

Strict adherence to biosecurity measures is the only effective shield against the spread of infectious diseases in the livestock sector. The Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA) has issued a series of recommendations to farmers aimed at minimizing the risks of new outbreaks appearing.

Control Over Purchases and Quarantine

According to the Agency, the main risks stem from the unclear origin of animals. Farmers are urged to purchase livestock only from registered farms and mandatory with full veterinary documentation. The BFSA warns that excessively low market prices are often an indicator of potential health risks. An important rule is the introduction of quarantine – new animals must be isolated from the herd for a specified period to be monitored for signs of disease.

Transport and Access of Persons

One of the main vectors for transmitting infections is transport vehicles. Tires, chassis, and truck equipment can easily carry pathogens between different sites. For this reason, the entry of any machinery into a farm must be followed by mandatory disinfection. The same strict regime should apply to visitors – access for individuals without a direct need to be on the premises must be drastically limited, and in case of a necessary visit, protective clothing must be used.

Risks During Grazing and Markets

The Agency advises livestock farmers to avoid mixing different herds during grazing, as direct contact between animals with an unknown health status is a critical factor for infection. The same applies to participation in exhibitions and markets, where the high concentration of animals from different regions creates ideal conditions for the rapid spread of infections.

Product Traceability and Responsibility

Prevention does not stop only with live animals. The BFSA warns of the danger of purchasing milk and meat from unregulated markets without a clear origin. It is emphasized to farmers that regular monitoring of the herd and timely reporting to a veterinarian regarding any unusual changes in behavior or appetite is critically important. Lapses in biosecurity can lead to catastrophic economic losses not only for individual farmers but for the entire region.