Weekly Overview: New Pig Viral Disease Confirmed in US
ANALYSIS – Porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV) has been found for the first time in four states in the US, while Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) has been reported in Kazakhstan (in cattle). In advances in disease control, there is a new vaccine against African Swine Fever in Kenya and a promising diagnostic tool for FMD from USDA ARS.
20 May 2013
3 minute read
By: There has been official confirmation of porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV) in the US for the first time.
This is not a new virus, according to USDA, nor is it a regulatory/reportable disease. Since PEDV is widespread in many countries, it is not a trade-restricting disease but rather a production-related disease.
PEDV may appear clinically to be the same as transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) virus with acute diarrhoea. Producers will need to work with their herd veterinarian with if any TGE-like symptoms appear and as always, maintain strict biosecurity protocols.
It only affects pigs; it is not zoonotic, so therefore, it poses no risk to other animals or humans nor to food safety.
The virus has been identified in a small number of herds, according to USDA. Michigan State University identified the locations as Minnesota, Iowa, Colorado and Indiana.
The virus is not a new virus as it was first recognised in England in 1971. Since then, the disease has been identified in a number of European countries and Canada, and more recently in China, Korea and Japan.
USDA, State Animal Health Officials, the American Association of Swine Veterinarians and veterinarians at the National Pork Board are actively monitoring this disease and will make recommendations to producers as necessary.
PEDV is transmitted via the faecal-oral route and may appear to be the same as transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) virus with acute diarrhoea within 12 to 36 hours of onset. Herd veterinarians remain well versed in managing TGE-like diseases.
Laboratory testing is the only way to diagnose PEDV, adds USDA. As always, producers who see any signs of illness in their pigs should notify their herd veterinarian immediately to address the issue.
Also in the US last week, the Senate and House Agriculture Committees passed their version of the 2013 Farm Bill.
Staying with pig health news, foot and mouth disease (FMD) has been reported in cattle in Kazakhstan.
In the US, Agriculture Research Service scientists have developed a new cell line that rapidly and accurately detects FMD virus.
Researchers in Kenya have launched research of a vaccine against African swine fever.
A project on porcine circovirus in Spain by Dr Marina Sibila and Dr Segalés was awarded at the latest edition of the European PCV2 Research Award sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health.
