Disposal of Animal Waste as a Risk Factor in the Spread of Zoonotic Pathogens

Abstract

The aim of this study is to give an overview of the production and management of animal waste in the Republic of Serbia, and to emphasize the importance of this issue and its proper solution. Disposal of animal waste is a significant prophylactic measure, aimed at detecting, preventing, suppressing and eradicating infectious and parasitic diseases in humans and animals. The process of animal waste disposal starts from the manufacturer, who is responsible for ensuring safe storage of waste in a cooling unit, until its final removal in the processing plant. Disposal of animal waste must be done in a safe way otherwise dangerous pathogens can be spread by water, air and soil and can endanger the health of the population. In the European Union, and the Republic of Serbia accordingly, the legislation was introduced regulating the ways of managing animal waste, categorizing hazardous waste and ways to its secure resolving, with member states obliged to respect and apply the methods of safe handling of by-products of animal origin.