Farm Biosecurity and Influenza A virus detection in Swine Farms: A Comprehensive Study in Colombia

Abstract Biosecurity protocols and good management practices are key to reduce the risk of introduction and transmission of infectious diseases into the industry. In this observational cross-sectional study, survey data were collected from 176 pig farms with inventories over 100 sows in Colombia. We analyzed a complex survey dataset to explore the structure and identify clustering patterns of swine farms in Colombia, and estimate its association with Swine Influenza. Two principal dimensions contributed to 27.6% of the dataset variation after Multiple Correspondence Analysis. Farms with highest contribution to dimension 1 were larger farrow-to-finish farms, using self-replacement of gilts and implementing most of the measures evaluated. In contrast, farms with highest contribution to dimension 2 were medium to large farrow-to-finish farms, but implemented biosecurity in a lower degree. Additionally, two farm clusters were identified by Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, and the odds of influenza A virus detection was statistically different between clusters (OR 7.29, CI: 1.7,66, p=<0.01). Moreover, after logistic regression analysis, three important variables were associated with higher odds of influenza detection: 1) “location in an area with a high density of pigs”, 2) “farm size”, and 3) “after cleaning and disinfecting, the facilities are allowed to dry before use”. Our results revealed two clustering patterns of swine farms. This systematic analysis of complex survey data identified relationships between biosecurity, husbandry practices and influenza status. This approach helped to identify gaps on biosecurity and key elements for designing successful strategies to prevent and control swine respiratory diseases in the swine industry.