The main indicators of biosecurity and presence of house mouse (Mus musculus L.) in animal husbandry facilities

Analysis of biosecurity indicators at critical control points intend to prevent undesirable infections in technological chains of production. Product quality is the basis for defining a biosecurity plan under the HACCP concept. General and specific biosecurity measures developed to prevent introductions of infective materials have been at the focus of attention in Serbia in recent years. The house mouse (Mus musculus L.) is usually accused for transferring pathogens into objects. The possibility of internal infections can be reduced by removing food sources and discovering their hiding places. The adaptability of Mus musculus to various conditions has affected the search for alternatives of their control. The objective of our research was to analyse the most important indicators of biosecurity and presence of Mus musculus, the ’cause-and- consequence’ characteristics and mice control by environmentally safe substances in facilities with different technological processes. Method of questionnaire was used to define written biosecurity plan, isolation of objects, control of movement and for traffic visitors. Hygiene evaluation, i.e. mechanized cleaning, sanitary washing, facility disinfection, ventilation and facility sanitation, was performed visually. The biosecurity and wellbeing of animals were evaluated by the parameters: animal hygienic conditions of rearing, forage stocks, animal biosecurity and removal of animal carcasses. Longworth traps were used for mice trapping and determination of critical control points. The efficacy of sodium selenite was found in our study to range from 71.4% to 88.8% and it provided a good alternative for Mus musculus control in different production units because it does not interfere with technological production processes within facilities or cause animal resistance. Biosecurity measures need to be implemented using clear instructions in order to reduce biorisks and increase product safety.