8.3 Biosecurity in scavenging pig production systems
The implementation of biosecurity measures in scavenging pig production systems is usually constrained by the producers’ limited capacity to invest resources and time, and by the nature of scavenging pig production (FAO, 2010). In scavenging systems, measures related to introduction of new piglets from unknown sources, monitoring the health status and unusual deaths of scavenger pigs, particularly regarding diseases of concern, should be given prime attention. Sometimes, a farmer may prefer to sell disease suspected animals to slaughter houses rather than undertaking control measures. The marketing of sick animals under scavenging rearing is a serious disease risk as these incubating or excreting sick animals disseminate disease very quickly to the healthy herd. Besides, practice of feeding untreated pig swill must be strictly avoided which has been practised for centuries in most of the developing and poor countries. Any unusual death of pigs should be immediately reported to veterinarians to know the biosecurity measures, proper disposal of animals and disinfection of farm and premises. Even if disinfection is unlikely to be practicable, cleaning of night shelters/enclosures and equipment must be emphasized (FAO, 2010). However, considering the biosecurity and socio-economic importance of pig farming in India, the practice of scavenging rearing should be prohibited to prevent contact with other domestic pigs, wildlife, rodents, birds and other livestock which creates favourable conditions for infectious disease spread.