Swine fever concerns lead to new exhibition rules at Iowa State Fair
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, State Veterinarian Dr Jeff Kaisand, and Iowa State Fair officials announce new animal health inspection requirements for swine exhibitors at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.
22 July 2019
3 minute read
By: The new rules stipulate that:
- All swine must be individually inspected and identified on a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection that was completed within seven days of the Iowa State Fair.
- A veterinarian will inspect all swine upon arrival at the Iowa State Fairgrounds before they are unloaded from the truck or mixed with other livestock on-site.
These additional exhibition requirements were developed with input from veterinarians and other third-party experts. They are designed to promote biosecurity and animal health as African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread across China and other parts of Asia and Europe.
“We are working with other state and federal agencies and industry partners to monitor the ASF situation and educate producers about biosecurity,” said Secretary Naig. “While the disease does not pose a human health or food safety threat, it would be detrimental to Iowa’s pork industry and the state’s economy. That’s why we’re implementing additional biosecurity measures for all swine exhibitors at this year’s Fair.”
While African swine fever is top of mind, the Department of Agriculture stresses the importance of following proper biosecurity protocols - with all species of animals - every day to protect Iowa’s livestock.
“All exhibitors are encouraged to practice good biosecurity both at the show and at home on the farm,” said Dr Kaisand. “When exhibitors return home from the Fair, they should disinfect their equipment, isolate animals that travelled to the show from the rest of the herd, and monitor for signs of illness.”
Protecting the health of Iowa’s livestock and the state’s ag-based economy are top priorities for the Department of Agriculture and fair organisers.
“We value Iowa’s largest industry, agriculture, and recognise the importance of comprehensive biosecurity practices,” said Gary Slater, CEO and Fair Manager. “We work in partnership with IDALS and our state veterinarians to maintain the highest standards for our livestock exhibitors and the animals they bring to show at the Fair.”
Visit iowaagriculture.gov to learn more.
