Respiratory Disease Control and Sustainable Livestock Production

The globalization of trade and human movement, the expansion of political and economic uncertainty, the speed, scale and nature of predicted global growth, and a wide range of public health issues, have raised concerns regarding the sustainability and security of animal-source food production systems around the world. Animal disease in farmed livestock is important with regard to food safety, animal welfare, and in view of the economic importance of animal-source food production in many countries. Respiratory disease continues to be one of the greatest sources of loss, and hence lack of sustainability, to livestock production systems around the world. In this course, we will explore the factors that contribute to respiratory disease in livestock systems and practical tools to limit its impact on food system sustainability. We will review the basics of respiratory physiology, immunology, and pathology along with how the commensal, symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms interact in food production ecosystems to prevent or promote respiratory disease.