Biosecurity is essential for disease prevention and sustainable poultry farming. Yet many farmers in Bangladesh lack access to structured training in farm management and disease control. This gap leaves farms vulnerable to outbreaks that threaten both livelihoods and public health.
A team led by by Meherjan Islam at Bangladesh’s Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University tested whether training framed within a One Health approach could improve farm biosecurity and management practices.
The study involved 88 farms across 12 upazilas (sub-districts) in the Chattogram district. Farmers joined a two‑day training, followed by assessments immediately after and again at least four months later. Researchers collected data through farm visits, questionnaires, and direct observation.
Distribution of the 88 farms in 12 upazilas of Chattogram district that were visited during the study for hands-on training and data collection.
A significant impact
The study found that One Health‑based training significantly improved operational biosecurity, with effects still visible months later. Structural biosecurity showed smaller gains. This suggests further evaluations at different time points post-training are necessary through multi-year longitudinal follow-up using on-farm observations, farmer surveys, and community feedback.
The extent of changes observed also depends on the type of investment, as the investment model often influences decision-making. Dealer-based investments, in particular, tend to limit the farmer’s autonomy, with decisions being shaped more by the dealer than by the farmer.
In addition, the farmer’s existing knowledge and experience play a crucial role in the effectiveness of the training.
The improved poultry farming and biosecurity practices in the context of Bangladesh that help to ensure prevention of zoonotic diseases and other public health hazards like AMR, focusing on the concept of One Health.
Designing effective programs
The researchers recommended that training programs tailored for adult learners with diverse educational backgrounds and experiences. Group discussions, collaborative learning, and practical on‑farm sessions proved effective in this study. They urged both government and private industry to adopt similar modules, highlighting the importance of joint action in strengthening poultry biosecurity
Peer influence and community norms also played a significant role in encouraging farmers to adopt new practices.
Find more info and details of the study here.