Since it was first identified in the United States last May, Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDv) has created significant losses to some pork producers in many parts of the country. Manure is a primary way the virus spreads from pig to pig and from farm to farm. On some sow farms, the virus has caused mortality rates in young pigs of up to 100 percent.
To help reduce the risk posed by PEDv-infected manure, veterinarians and university experts working with the Pork Checkoff, the National Pork Producers Council and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians have created a set of guidelines for producers and others involved in transporting livestock or providing services to pig farms.
"We know this virus is easily spread to uninfected pigs and clean farms by infected manure," said Dr. Paul Sundberg, vice president of science and technology for the Pork Checkoff. The new guidelines (available at www.pork.org/pedv) are specifically offered for producers, livestock transporters and feed delivery personnel.
PEDv is caused by a virus (Coronavirus) that is related to transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) virus. PEDv only infects pigs, not humans, pets or other livestock. However, any object that is contaminated with pig manure can be a source of infection for pigs. To help limit spread of the virus to clean farms, the following measures are recommended for producers of all sizes:
Clearly define, communicate and enforce a Line of Separation which marks the separation between the facility, transport vehicles or the outside/inside of the production site. Contact your veterinarian and enhance all biosecurity procedures. Biosecurity of transportation vehicles is important; they should be clean, disinfected and dry. Several disinfectants have been demonstrated to effectively inactivate PEDV, such as formalin, sodium carbonate, lipid solvents, and strong iodophors in phosphoric acid. Be sure replacement breeding stock originates from a negative herd.
To view the latest research and resources on PEDv, see the links below. Producers can also call the Wisconsin Pork Association (WPA) office at 1-800-822-7675 (in-state only) to receive a copy of the biosecurity guidelines.
WPA encourages swine producers of all sizes and types to join the association, in order to receive ongoing, timely updates on this and other issues affecting on-farm profitability. The association offers a free membership option, as well as Extended Benefits and Strategic Investment alternatives. Sign up information is available on the web site. Click on Membership under the Producer Resources tab at the top of the home page.
WPA will also be offering a session during the Pork/Corn/Soy Expo to give producers the latest update on PEDv and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Virus. The session will take place on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 3:00 p.m. Dr. Jim McKean, Extension Veterinarian with the Iowa Pork Industry Center, will provide updates on these diseases, as well as what can be done on-farm to protect your herd. In addition, the UW-Extension Swine Team will talk about biosecurity practices for fairs and exhibitors.
