The Georgia Department of Agriculture said that results from two samples from pigs at the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show held 18-21 February, 2015, tested positive for PEDv on 27 February, 2015.

The Department immediately responded with biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the disease. The locations of where the positive samples came from have been visited and animal movement has been controlled.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) is now working closely with other animal industry partners to provide information about bio-security, disease prevention and control.

The incubation period for PEDv is 36 hours. Symptoms can emerge four to five days after exposure and vary widely depending on the age of the pig affected.

Symptoms include off-feed, vomiting, diarrhea and increased mortality. Pigs can also be asymptomatic carriers of the virus.

Biosecurity is the key to preventing spread of the disease. It is important to limit travel and commingling with other swine associated events or personnel.

The disease can be spread by pig to pig contact and by contaminated equipment, chutes, trailers, vehicles, clothing and personnel. All equipment should be cleaned and disinfected and all sick animals isolated. It is important to regularly observe your herd for evidence of disease.

Also of interest:

• PED: Watch That Biosecurity!
• Porcine Epidemic Diarrhoea (PED) Disease Guide
• Protect Swine Herds from PED with Proper Biosecurity Protocols