Work

Small pig stakeholders' knowledge of foreign animal diseases: Baseline knowledge and impact of an outreach session

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The emergence and rapid spread of Foreign Animal Diseases (FADs) pose ongoing threats to animal and human health. Specifically, the swine industry faces constant risks of disease introduction, with African Swine Fever among the foremost concerns. Despite numerous national and local initiatives aimed at supporting swine stakeholders in FAD preparedness, the focus has predominantly been on large commercial operations, neglecting small-scale stakeholders. This study aimed to assess baseline knowledge and evaluate the effectiveness of an outreach session within small swine stakeholders in the state of Ohio, United States. Utilizing pre- and post-session surveys, we measured changes in short-term knowledge levels among 31 participants across five sessions. Results indicated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge post-session regarding various aspects of FADs recognition, transmission, and outbreak response. Additionally, our analysis identified educational level as the sole factor significantly associated with higher pre-session knowledge levels. These findings highlight the potential of outreach programs designed for small-scale stakeholders to improve biosecurity practices and FAD preparedness.

Source: Preventive Veterinary Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2025.106517

Authors: B. Alexander Fonseca-Martinez, Juan Hernandez-Cuevas, Kristy Shaw, Andreia G. Arruda

Institutions: The Ohio State University, Ohio Department of Agriculture

Language: English

Topic: Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology

Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,280