Which measure helps prevent farm-to-farm spread of avian influenza?

• A. Cleaning and disinfection
• B. Allowing regular visitor access
• C. Sharing equipment without cleaning
• D. Ignoring vehicle movement

Answer: (A)

Preventing farm-to-farm spread hinges on interrupting the main routes the virus uses to move between operations. Cleaning and disinfection directly targets contaminated surfaces, equipment, clothing, and vehicles that can carry the virus from one farm to another. Removing organic matter first (cleaning) lets the disinfectant work effectively, and proper disinfection inactivates the virus, greatly reducing the chance of transmission via fomites.

Other practices would increase risk. Allowing regular visitor access introduces more people who could bring in contamination. Sharing equipment without cleaning can transfer virus from one site to another. Ignoring vehicle movement leaves open a major highway for contaminated vehicles to ferry the virus between farms. Emphasizing clean, dedicated equipment, restricted access, and controlled vehicles creates a stronger defense, with cleaning and disinfection at the core.