Pork Council to Mobilise PED Strategic Task Force
CANADA - Canada’s first case of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhoea (PED) virus was found on an Ontario farm last week. The Canadian Pork Council has taken steps to mobilise a PED Strategic Task Force that will bring key players together to standardise efforts across Canada.
31 January 2014
3 minute read
This task force is expected to have regulatory veterinary officials – both federal and provincial – and the veterinary diagnostic laboratory sector engaged along with provincial pork boards.
Just a few days prior to the announcement of the presence of the PED virus on an Ontario farm, hog industry leaders from across Canada met for the Canadian Pork Council’s first board meeting of 2014 to set policy priorities for the year. Producers had the opportunity to discuss swine health, animal care, international trade and national marketing initiatives. Swine health dominated the discussion.
"For the past three years the pork industry has worked hard to prepare for, and has taken preventative measures to slow viruses like PED from affecting Canada’s heard health," stated Jean-Guy Vincent, CPC’s Chair. "PED poses no risk to human health or food safety but this is such a devastating production virus that producers must make it a priority, and consider preventative measures to reduce the risk of transmission."
"With Federal government assistance, Canadian Swine Health Board proactively developed and implemented a biosecurity programme to help minimise heard health risks," added Mr Vincent. "Given this situation, producers are encouraged to increase their due diligence and use the tools and best information available to prevent the spread of this virus."
"The swine industry has been actively following the situation in the US and the risks associated with the rapid spread of the virus. We have been in constant contact with swine heath experts in Canada and our counterparts in the US to understand PEDV and share the most current information and practices," added CPC first Vice Chair Rick Bergmann.
Significant steps have been taken to help reduce the risk of the virus being introduced in Canada by the Canadian industry. Industry has gone to great lengths to limit the transmission of this virus and it will continue to remain vigilant in addition to continue to implement biosecurity practices. The CPC also fully supports the work of provincial and federal governments.
