P2-113 Determining the Presence of Pathogen Reduction Strategies at Livestock Interactions

Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Exhibit Hall (Tampa Convention Center)
Savana Everhart , North Carolina State University , Raleigh , NC
Derek Foster , North Carolina State University , Raleigh , NC
Benjamin Chapman , North Carolina State University , Raleigh , NC
Megan Jacob , Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, CVM, NCSU , Raleigh , NC
Introduction: Outbreaks of E. coli, Salmonella, and Cryptosporidium have been associated with direct and indirect animal contact at petting zoos and agricultural fairs.  Seven states have laws governing pathogen reduction strategies (primarily hand sanitation) be present at these exhibits.  These laws do not apply to other livestock interactions such as agrotourism farms and zoos, however, outbreaks have been associated with public attendance at these venues.

Purpose: The purpose of our work was to host an interactive workshop for North Carolina agrotourism members, describe the types of interactions marketed, and determine the pathogen reduction strategies and facility design considerations targeted at reducing pathogen transmission in these venues. 

Methods: An interactive workshop open to all North Carolinians operating or interested in pathogen control at livestock interactions was held in January of 2017.  Participants (n = 44) were provide a questionnaire which collected information on current biosecurity and human public health practices, knowledge and concerns. Respondents (n=18) remained anonymous and were not provided specific recommendations prior to recording their results.

Results: All respondents reported that physical interactions (petting or touching) were allowed and encouraged in their events/sites. Sixteen operators indicated they had hand washing stations available to the public on their premise.  Two operators reported that people often eat in the areas where animals are housed or on display. Only two operators reported any sort of cleaning and sanitizing of animal/human barriers. No operators reported having foot baths directly surrounding their interaction area.

Significance: Developing tools, including risk assessments, and educational material for livestock agrotourism operators that engage the public was requested and encouraged.  Much variability in pathogen reduction knowledge and strategies was reported.  Future work to identify critical risk points at livestock interaction exhibits is warranted to further reduce the outbreak potential at these venues.