In a follow-up on the porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) virus situation in Alberta, Canada, Alberta Pork is reporting the second-ever reported case of PED in the province.

Image/Chun-San via pixabay
Image/Chun-San via pixabay

A 600-head farrow-to-finish hog operation in Alberta has contracted the virus, a disease that causes diarrhea and vomiting in pigs.

Strict biosecurity protocols are of utmost importance in limiting the impact of disease in agriculture. It is especially critical during this outbreak that producers consider enhancing biosecurity on-farm and in animal transportation. Producers are encouraged to submit all swine manifests, including farm-to-farm movements, in a timely manner.

Any place off-farm, such as an abattoir, should be considered as a potential source for bringing disease to your herd. Producers are reminded to review their farms’ biosecurity policies regularly and consult Alberta Pork or your herd veterinarian as required. Producers should also consult their herd veterinarians before making shipping decisions as a precaution if herd health issues are suspected.

PED affects pigs but poses no risk to human health. This incident has not caused any food safety concerns, and pork products remain safe for consumption.