Disease control

Making sure animal disease control interventions are epidemiologically sound, economically viable and socially acceptable

Assessing disease control interventions

EPIC uses interdisciplinary expertise, including social and behavioural science and economics, to develop practical disease control interventions that can be implemented by the Scottish livestock sector.

Biosecurity and behaviour

The research conducted by social scientists has been integral to the success of EPIC. Working closely with industry and individual farmers, smallholders and crofters, our researchers gain insights into livestock keeper decision-making, from the uptake of technology to how they view biosecurity.

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Economics of animal health

EPIC's agri-economists carry out analysis across livestock sectors and production types, modelling the implications of shocks to the system, such as those a notifiable disease outbreak can cause.

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Disease interventions and eradication

EPIC works closely with policy teams and the livestock sector to inform practical disease interventions. EPIC’s work has been key in informing the eradication programme for Bovine Viral Diarrhoea in Scotland.