Animal Health Ireland (AHI) has launched its annual National Farm Biosecurity Week, running from April 14th to 18th, 2026. The initiative aims to highlight the critical importance of robust biosecurity measures on Irish farms, particularly as increased livestock movement during the breeding and summer seasons elevates the risk of disease introduction and spread.
The campaign focuses on practical steps farmers can take to protect their herds and flocks. Key advice includes maintaining secure boundary fencing, implementing effective quarantine procedures for newly purchased or returning animals, ensuring clean equipment and facilities, and controlling visitor and vehicle access to farm premises.
AHI emphasizes that diseases such as Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) can have severe economic and animal welfare consequences. Strong biosecurity is presented as the first line of defense, helping to safeguard animal health, farm productivity, and the sustainability of the national herd. Resources and guidance are available through the AHI website and its partner organizations to support farmers in reviewing and enhancing their biosecurity protocols.
