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Post-flood animal husbandry should pay attention to what issues
In recent months, several provinces and cities across China have experienced heavy rainfall and severe flooding, leading to widespread damage. Among the affected sectors, livestock farming has been particularly hard hit. As recovery efforts begin, it is crucial to implement effective disease prevention measures to avoid outbreaks and minimize further economic losses. Below are key points to consider following flood events:
1. **Which Animal Diseases Are Likely to Occur After a Flood?**
Floods create ideal conditions for the spread of infectious and parasitic diseases. Common post-flood diseases include anthrax in cattle and sheep, schistosomiasis, swine erysipelas, hog cholera, streptococcus in pigs, infectious bursal disease in chickens, coccidiosis, and various poisoning or gastrointestinal infections. These diseases can rapidly spread if not managed properly.
2. **What Should Be Done Now to Prevent Epidemics?**
Immediate action is necessary. Dead animals should be removed and disposed of safely, farm areas must be thoroughly disinfected, vaccination programs should be reinforced, and feed should be checked for mold to prevent poisoning.
3. **Why Is Proper Disposal of Dead Animals Important? How Should It Be Done?**
Dead animals carry large amounts of pathogens that can contaminate water and air, posing serious health risks. The most effective method is deep burial—digging pits at least 2 meters deep, covering the carcasses with lime or disinfectant, and then filling them with soil. In suitable areas, incineration is also an option.
4. **Why Is Veterinary Hygiene and Disinfection Necessary?**
Floods often lead to overflowing septic tanks, contaminated water, and the spread of germs from the soil. This creates a high risk of disease transmission. Disinfection helps eliminate pathogens, reduce contamination, and protect both humans and animals from potential outbreaks.
5. **What Areas Need to Be Disinfected?**
Comprehensive disinfection is essential after a flood. Focus should be on livestock houses, slaughter areas, processing facilities, markets, transport vehicles, water sources, and any other places where animals or their products may be present.
6. **What Are Common Disinfectants Used?**
In addition to physical methods like cleaning, drying, and burning, chemical disinfectants such as lime water, caustic soda, and peracetic acid are widely used for their effectiveness.
7. **Why Is It Important to Boost Vaccination Efforts?**
Floods can trigger the resurgence of diseases that were previously under control, such as swine fever or Newcastle disease. Many farms may have missed routine vaccinations during the crisis. It’s critical to re-vaccinate and boost immunity to prevent outbreaks.
8. **Why Is Strengthening Quarantine Important After a Disaster?**
With many animals lost or relocated, the movement of livestock increases the risk of introducing new diseases. Effective quarantine and inspection help prevent the spread of infection and protect the overall health of the industry.
9. **Why Do Rain and Locust Infestations Lead to Coccidiosis Outbreaks?**
Coccidiosis thrives in warm, wet conditions, which are common after floods. The moist environment allows the parasite's eggs to develop quickly, increasing the risk of infection in poultry and rabbits. High mortality rates can occur, so regular cleaning, separation of young and adult birds, and proper medication are essential.
By taking these steps, farmers and authorities can significantly reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and support the recovery of the livestock sector. Proactive measures are key to protecting both animal and human health in the aftermath of natural disasters.