[Zoonotic risk of rodents in livestock production].

Salmonella and Campylobacter are generally regarded as the most important foodborne pathogens in the world. Reduction or elimination of these pathogens in the first part of the food chain (on-farm) is important to prevent disease among consumers of animal products. Rodents are frequently associated with infrastructural damages and eating or spoiling of stored feed and products, but the veterinary risks of rodents are often underestimated. As rodents can amplify the number of pathogens in the environment and transfer them to food animals, farmers should be aware of the need for rodent control from a food safety perspective. Preferably, rodent control should form an integral part of a total package of hygienic measures to prevent transfer of foodborne pathogens. These should also include e.g. control of wild birds and flies and obligatory disinfections of boots/clothes and equipment for farm workers and visitors.