Ottawa,ON–A positive case of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea(PED)has been confirmed in Canada.PED was diagnosed in the US in May 2013,and has since spread to 23 states.Canadian pork industry stakeholders have worked together to develop contingency plans and to prevent its spread across the border.The Canadian Swine Health Board(CSHB)was notified as soon as the case was confirmed,and is working with industry and government stakeholders.
PED had been established in Europe and more recently in Asia,and appeared in the US in mid-May,the first time the disease has been identified in North America.This disease causes vomiting and diarrhea especially in nursing piglets,with up to 100%mortality in that age group being reported.PED is not a food safety issue and it poses no risk to other species,although it is considered a serious health threat to the Canadian industry.
The best way that producers can protect their herds from this pathogen is through implementing strict biosecurity measures.The CSHB's National Swine Farm-level Biosecurity Standard is a set of comprehensive biosecurity protocols–producers that received training on the Standard,as well as those who did not take the training when it was available,are encouraged to review their biosecurity practices.
The CSHB was formed to proactively address swine health challenges through leadership,coordination and support in the management of the health of the Canadian swine herd.Its members include the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians,the Canadian Association of Veterinary Colleges,the Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement,the Canadian Meat Council and the Canadian Pork Council.
