Extension issues recommendations for farmers during COVID-19 outbreak

March 12, 2020 Cooperative Extension, Outreach, School of Food and Agriculture

University of Maine Cooperative Extension has released recommendations for farmers in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Anne Lichtenwalner, UMaine Extension veterinarian, associate professor, and director of the Extension Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, authored the guide.

“While there’s no evidence that the novel coronavirus causing COVID-19 is affecting livestock, or any species besides humans, it’s important to take common sense precautions that help guard against introducing or spreading diseases on the farm,” says Lichtenwalner. 

Practices including good nutrition, proper ventilation and hygiene, and adhering to standard biosecurity guidelines — keeping visitors, wildlife and new livestock out of direct contact with farm animals — are always appropriate. 

Recommendations are on the Extension Diagnostic and Research Laboratory website. For more information, contact 207.581.3874, extension.diagnosticlab@maine.edu.