Category: Animal Safety, Swine, Animal Health, Sanitation & Hygiene
January 16, 2019
It’s been nearly five years since the deadly porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv) was first reported in Canada. That case was in 2014, in the province of Ontario. Since then, the virus has been reported in Prince Edward Island, Manitoba and Quebec.
Now, it’s been found in Alberta, at an operation with 400 pigs.
“We’re just trying to figure out what happened, how it got to the farm, and try to deal with the pigs themselves,” said Alberta Pork executive director Darcy Fitzgerald. “We’re hopeful that we’ll be able to keep it under control.”
How it’s spread
PEDv is usually transmitted by oral contact with feces from contaminated pigs. It has 100% mortality in piglets and nursing pigs. The virus doesn’t affect humans or other animals and poses no food safety risk, meaning pork products are safe to eat. Still, it can potentially disrupt supply because it is so deadly.
“Strict biosecurity protocols are of utmost importance in limiting the impact of disease in agriculture,” said Alberta Pork in a statement. “It is especially critical during this outbreak that producers consider enhancing biosecurity on-farm and in animal transportation.”
Ramped up biosecurity measures goes beyond cleaning and disinfection — documentation, limiting access to animals and proper separation techniques matter, too.
Neogen offers products that can play an essential role in any biosecurity program, including disinfectants, cleaners, personal protective equipment and more. See our website for more information.
Category: Animal Safety, Swine, Animal Health, Sanitation & Hygiene