How to prepare

1. Know the signs of LSD and FMD

Early detection is critical for an effective response. Everyone on your feedlot should be able to identify the signs of LSD and FMD, and know how to report a suspected case to the appropriate authorities. To assist, ALFA has developed fact sheets for you to share amongst your feedlot staff.

• Lumpy skin disease – Identifying and responding to LSD

• Foot and mouth disease – Identifying and responding to FMD

2. Report LSD or FMD, if you suspect it

LSD and FMD are reportable diseases and so if you suspect a case of either on your feedlot, you must immediately report it to:

• The Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline – 1800 675 888; or

• Your state or territory Chief Veterinary Officer.

3. Bolster your biosecurity protocols

Take the time to review your biosecurity protocols. The National Biosecurity Manual For Beef Cattle Feedlots outlines elements of best management practice that should be followed wherever possible to protect your livestock against exposure to endemic and emergency diseases.

4. Review your Emergency Animal Disease Action Plan

Review your Emergency Animal Disease Action Plan. The National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme (NFAS) Element LM7 – Biosecurity includes procedures to help you minimise the risk of entry and spread of a disease and/or manage an animal disease outbreak on your feedlot. Review your procedures with management and staff.

The procedures set out in the AUSVETPLAN Enterprise Manual for Beef Cattle Feedlots (Version 5) provide guidance to operators in the event of a disease outbreak. Feedlot operators should become familiar with these procedures and how they relate to feedlot operations.