Protecting Animals and People - Understanding Zoonotic Disease

Nov 03, 2021

It is a well-known fact that most people do not know where their food comes from or how it is raised or grown. In fact, while there are over two million farms in the U.S., farmers and ranchers make up less than 2% of the U.S. population. This means that most people do not have experience with or a connection to a farm or an understanding of what it takes to produce food. This is where our county fairs, animal exhibitions, and agri-tourism operations help educate people on what farming really is and connect them to agriculture. However, providing people with access to animals does come with some risks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, zoonotic diseases are diseases caused by germs that spread between people and animals. These diseases are quite common but with proper prevention and hygiene, the risk of transmission is low. Michigan State University Extension has partnered with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to create multiple resources designed to help prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. Anyone who works with events or locations that have a people (public) and animal interface will benefit from the developed resources and will be able to utilize them at their operations or exhibitions.

These resources will be highlighted on an informational Zoom webinar on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021 from 1 to 2 p.m. The Zoom platform does not require any additional software or equipment and while there is no cost to participate, attendees must register in order to receive access to the necessary connection link. This educational event will feature speakers from MSU Extension and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, it will include information on planning materials and signage that can be used to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks, social media materials that promote healthy interaction with animals, and educational materials to educate youth in strategies that can be used to bring awareness around the issue of the spread of zoonotic diseases.

Source : msu.edu

Video: New Solution Powers Efficient Pork Growth

Alltech has introduced Olerix, an innovative phytogenic blend created to promote growth and feed efficiency in pigs. Through a proprietary coating process, the bioactive blend of phytogenic compounds used in Olerix is designed to outlast the manufacturing process, ensuring consistent outcomes from feed to finish. The result is a high-impact efficiency solution that provides consistent support for gut health, feed efficiency, immune function and growth performance. Olerix is backed by validated trials conducted under modern pork production conditions.

“As the industry searches for technology to drive profitability forward in a more sustainable manner, we’re thrilled to join that effort with our Olerix technology,” said Mark Hulsebus, general manager for U.S. pork at Alltech. “Our work in this phytogenic space is yielding very encouraging results, and we’re excited to make this new opportunity available to pork producers focused on optimizing feed efficiency and growth rates.”

“Olerix represents the next generation of phytogenic technology — combining feed efficiency, livability and immune support into a practical commercial solution producers can implement today,” said Andy Rash, U.S. monogastric director at Alltech.