The Canadian Food Inspection Agency(CFIA)has asked pig producers to take appropriate biosecurity measures to safeguard the health of their animals and people who may come into contact with them.
This move comes in response to the emergence of the variant H3N2 influenza virus in people and pigs in the US.
Although the variant H3N2 influenza virus is not federally reportable in Canada,the CFIA noted that it is monitoring the situation in close collaboration with public health authorities.
The agency said that it is important to practise on-farm biosecurity and spotting signs of disease early.It has advised producer to properly clean barns,equipment,clothing and footwear;identify and segregate sick animals as early as possible;and consult a veterinarian if you believe your animals are sick.
People visiting farms and events have been advised to wash their hands before and after their visit;ask before petting or feeding animals;and stay home if they are feeling sick.
In addition to animal health safeguards on the farm,Canada has border measures in place to prevent diseases from entering the national herd.Pigs imported for slaughter must be accompanied by a health certificate confirming they are free of any communicable diseases.
