Qualitative studies on farm managers perception of risk from HPAIV and implementation of biosecurity measures on UK poultry farms
Prev Vet Med. 2025 Feb 15;239:106445. doi: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2025.106445. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The epidemic of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in the United Kingdom and Northern Europe from 2021 to 2023 has dwarfed all previous incursions. This fact has driven the need to review biosecurity behaviours and perceptions of virus incursions on commercial poultry farms. This study used qualitative methods to evaluate farm managers' perceptions of biosecurity and their implementation of measures as recommended by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Thirteen farm managers across different regions of England and Wales were recruited between May and September 2023 to take part in the study. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were held with managers to discuss various topics relating to biosecurity and avian influenza (AI). Biosecurity measures being used across the farm by managers and staff were also observed to help understand biosecurity behaviours. Interviews were transcribed and analysed to identify themes and patterns amongst the data, along with extensive notes collated during the farm visits. Findings showed that farms' use of biosecurity with respect to disinfection regimes and use of foot dips were both well cited and observed. Similarly, farm managers were all highly likely to refer to the use of farm-specific and shed-specific rubber boots, while also citing stricter requirements for visitors and delivery/maintenance. Biosecurity concerning the layout of the premises, fencing, access to changing rooms and the general age and maintenance of buildings and sheds required significant improvement across many farms. Additionally, farm managers expressed strong feelings of stress and anxiety in recent years, particularly those who had experienced an AI outbreak recently. We argue that factors such as risk perceptions, remits of control, feelings of responsibility and autonomy, and consequences on mental health, are all factors that can inform how farm managers respond to outbreaks and implement or sustain biosecurity on farms. A greater emphasis on providing regular and tailored training and educational resources for the industry would be beneficial as would further services focusing on reducing the burden on farmers' mental health. This research provides insight into the application and shortcomings of biosecurity implementation on commercial poultry farms. It also identifies farmer perceptions and experiences shaping implementation on farms. However, this highlights that the onus for improving biosecurity cannot remain solely with farm managers and workers. Further research exploring the role of other stakeholders in the industry would help bridge remaining gaps in our understanding of biosecurity implementation.
PMID:40010002 | DOI:10.1016/j.prevetmed.2025.106445
Association of Serum Symmetric Dimethylarginine Concentrations and Inflammation in Cats
J Vet Intern Med. 2025 Mar-Apr;39(2):e70030. doi: 10.1111/jvim.70030.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) concentrations are higher in some hyperthyroid cats with normal renal function, presumably due to increased protein catabolism.
OBJECTIVES: To investigate if SDMA is higher in cats with inflammation (defined as elevated serum amyloid A [SAA]).
ANIMALS: Twenty-eight cats: 12 with elevated SAA concentrations (> 3.9 μg/mL) and 16 with normal SAA.
METHODS: Retrospective case control study. Cats presenting to a referral institution between 2016 and 2022 with a documented SAA were identified. Individuals with renal and extrarenal factors known to affect SDMA were excluded. SDMA was measured from stored serum samples. Comparisons were made using the Mann-Whitney U test, and correlations assessed using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Data are presented as median [minimum-maximum].
RESULTS: SDMA was not significantly different between cats with elevated SAA and normal SAA (11 [5-17] μg/dL vs. 13 [9-21] μg/dL, respectively; p = 0.28). There was no correlation between SDMA and SAA (rs = -0.105; p = 0.594) or serum TT4 concentrations (rs = -0.023; p = 0.906). No difference in age or USG was present between elevated SAA and normal SAA groups (p = 0.908 and p = 0.165, respectively). Serum urea and creatinine concentrations were both significantly lower in cats with elevated SAA compared to those with normal SAA (6.3 [3.6-8.8] mmol/L vs. 8.4 [6.2-10.5] mmol/L; p = 0.008, and 96 [62-129] μmol/L vs. 118 [90-147] μmol/L; p = 0.008, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: SDMA might be a more representative biomarker of GFR during inflammatory states, provided other confounding factors that affect SDMA are eliminated.
PMID:40008808 | DOI:10.1111/jvim.70030