Disinfection in livestock farms:A small great detail
Farms today, where production is intensive, are at permanent risk from the action of pathogenic organisms. The onset of an infectious disease compromises the viability of farms (reducing their income) and the health of animals and even workers.
Pathogens are able to live and reproduce in moist environments where organic matter is present. Just as each organism has conditions in which its development is optimal, its behavior towards chemical products varies according to the pathogen to be combated.
Until recently, the concept of biosafety was not taken into account. Technological advances, the increase in production and the research that supports the importance of the biosafety concept have meant that it is taken into consideration when establishing hygiene measures on a farm. Biosecurity encompasses measures that are used to prevent the entry of pathogens into a farm and/or prevent the development of a disease caused by them.
Cleaning is the step prior to disinfection and should not be skipped , since the presence of organic matter limits the action of most disinfectants. In the case of livestock farms, cleaning is usually done wet.
Thedisinfection It is carried out in order to eliminate pathogenic organisms and is usually carried out through the use of chemical agents. . Disinfectants have biocidal action. It is carried out in livestock accommodation, vehicles used to transport livestock and in elements used for production such as milking circuits.
There are different types of disinfectants:
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|
Characteristic |
|
alcohols |
Its activity depends on the concentration (ideal 60-80%) |
|
Chlorinated |
They are broad-spectrum and low-cost. They are effective at low temperatures and have low residual effect |
|
aldehydes |
Broad-spectrum but slow-acting bactericide |
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acids |
It is broad-spectrum, even acts on yeasts. It has low foaming capacity (ideal for circuits) |
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Phenolic compounds |
They are broad-spectrum and their formulation is soapy |
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Quaternary ammonium compounds |
They act on bacteria, fungi and viruses. Active even in hard water |
Theideal disinfectant It must be, among other characteristics, broad spectrum , active even in the presence of organic matter, non-toxic, friendly to the environment and with a favorable quality-price ratio and its use must be allowed in the type of activity for which it is to be used.
For the elimination of a particular pathogen, there must be a specificity between the pathogen and the active ingredient of the disinfectant. In addition, the manufacturer's instructions should always be followed.
Advice of Commercial Mida
It is necessary to know the surfaces, both floors, ceilings and walls. For the disinfection of livestock accommodation, cleaning and disinfection must always be carried out from the top down and from the back to the front. In the case ofmilking circuitsDisinfection must be periodic and after performing it, it must be rinsed with plenty of water to remove residue.
