Scoping review to assess online guidance about poultry farm biosecurity for farmers in the UK.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Biosecurity is the primary defence against diseases such as avian influenza (AI) for poultry farms. This research reviews online resources to assess the availability and topics shaping biosecurity advice for poultry farmers. METHODS: A rapid scoping review examined biosecurity guidelines available to UK poultry farmers on 10 websites (www.gov.uk; www.gov.scot; www.gov.wales; www.bfrepa.co.uk; www.nfuonline.com; www.britishpoultry.org.uk; www.redtractor.org.uk; www.bvpa.co.uk; www.bva.co.uk; www.britisheggindustrycouncil.com). Webpages were analysed against key criteria, including topics and levels of detail. RESULTS: Ultimately, 174 webpages were analysed. Government websites housed many pages relevant to poultry biosecurity, while assurer and trade union sites contained fewer. There was a broad consensus across websites on the topics covered, with hygiene and administrative guidance included on the largest number of webpages. Most webpages contained only limited or some relevant details, often repeating key messages rather than offering comprehensive implementation guidance. Pages with extensive detail were linked to regularly and appeared early in search results. LIMITATIONS: Northern Ireland's government website was not reviewed. CONCLUSION: Many webpages advising on poultry farm biosecurity exist. They often highlighted the importance of hygiene measures and administrative actions. However, the lack of detailed implementation guidance may present challenges for farmers seeking to learn how to implement good biosecurity.