| | "Easy, common sense measures can go a long way in preventing the spread of agricultural disease between farms, regions and countries," says Dr. Gerald Hauer, Assistant Chief Provincial Veterinarian, Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Edmonton. "Being informed and using a few precautions can reduce the risk of bringing a foreign animal or plant disease back to Canada from abroad, or spreading disease from farm to farm."
If holiday plans include a visit to the countryside or an open market:
- Inform yourself - learn which diseases are present in the area being visited. Be aware that biohazards can exist in live animal markets as well as on farms.
- Avoid unnecessary contact with animals, carcasses and manure - admire from a distance if possible. If contact is necessary, wear disposable gloves, boots and outerwear.
- Keep clean - wash hands and fingernails thoroughly with soap and water after each farm visit or contact with livestock. Disinfectant gel or moist towelettes can be effective as long as hands are not visibly soiled.
- Leave the germs behind - ensure all equipment, clothing and footwear is thoroughly cleaned before returning home.
"The federal government has guidelines about what can be brought back to Canada," says Hauer. "And it is up to every one of us to follow those rules. Diseases from overseas can have severe economic consequences if brought back into Canada. Canadian farmers rely on us to make sure we do what we can to prevent the introduction of disease.
"And of course, we want to use good biosecurity while we are visiting another country. We do not want Canadians to be responsible for the spread of disease in a country that is good enough to host us."
The Canada Border Services Agency requires international travellers to declare all plant and animal products (meat, dairy, eggs, etc.). Do not bring these products to a farm or anywhere that livestock could come in contact with them. If a farm was visited while abroad, it is recommended not to visit farms in Canada for 14 days after arrival home.
For more information, visit the Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian web pages on Alberta Agriculture's website or call (780) 427-3448.
To find out about current animal disease situations prior to travel, visit the World Organization for Animal Health website .
Contact: Dr. Gerald Hauer, DVM (780) 427-3448 |
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