The Chief Veterinary Office (CVO) of Manitoba has reported the first positive samples of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) from pigs on a weaned to finish farm in Manitoba. The samples have been sent to the National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease in Winnipeg for confirmation.
PEDv is fatal for very young pigs while most older pigs recover. The virus does not affect food safety and is not a risk to human health or other animals. Pork remains a safe choice for consumers to eat.
“We are following a response plan we had in place in collaboration with the CVO. The site has been contained and neighbours in the area are being contacted by veterinarians,” said Manitoba Pork Chair, Karl Kynoch. “I commend the producer for cooperating with the CVO and the attending veterinarian. All steps are being taken to contain the virus on the farm and an investigation has been initiated.”
PEDv is highly contagious, so it’s crucial producers maintain strict biosecurity protocols and contact a veterinarian immediately if they see animals showing signs of illness. “Strict biosecurity practices can reduce the potential for outbreaks,” says Kynoch. “All trucks and trailers coming onto your site must be properly washed and disinfected. It is your responsibility to make sure that all trailers are clean before they back up to your barn.”
