Current Biosecurity Practices in the Handling and Sampling of Cervids: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Abstract

Effective biosecurity practices are essential for mitigating the risks of pathogen transmission in human-wildlife interactions, yet it is unclear how infection control policies are put into action by those working with wildlife. We evaluated biosecurity practices among professionals working with cervids in the US and Canada via an electronic survey conducted between March 2024 and June 2024. The objectives were to identify pathogens of concern, describe current biosecurity protocols, evaluate the appropriateness of disinfecting practices, and explore associations between biosecurity practices and factors such as profession, regional disease status, and the nature of interactions with cervids. Survey respondents were primarily ecologists or biologists (47%), veterinarians (46%), and managers or wildlife capture professionals lacking those backgrounds (6%). Respondents identified chronic wasting disease (CWD) and SARS-CoV-2 as primary pathogens of concern, with CWD being the most frequently targeted for disinfection, even in nonendemic areas. Although most respondents indicated the use of biosecurity protocols, adherence was inconsistent, particularly in free-living settings. Professionals working with captive cervids were significantly more likely to consistently follow biosecurity protocols than those working exclusively with free-living cervids. Use of personal protective equipment was common. Veterinarians were more likely than managers lacking an ecology, biology, or veterinary background to disinfect cervid sampling equipment between individual animals. Those working in regions where CWD was endemic were more likely to have formal biosecurity policies and cleaning and disinfection protocols compared with those in nonendemic areas. Our study also identified biosecurity protocol gaps, with some respondents using ineffective disinfectants or suboptimal concentrations against reported pathogens of concern. These findings highlight the need for standardized, evidence-based guidelines when developing and implementing cervid biosecurity protocols, particularly regarding effective disinfectant use.