Strict biosecurity measures and a full outbreak investigation are underway
Alberta has confirmed its first case of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv) in four years, after laboratory testing validated the infection on February 21, 2026 at a farm in southern Alberta. The province had not reported a positive case since February 2022, marking this as a significant development for Alberta’s swine sector.
Buffer Zones in Place, No Other Farms Affected
Following the confirmed diagnosis, authorities established three kilometre and 10 kilometre buffer zones around the affected site. No other farms are located within these biosecurity zones, reducing the immediate risk of local transmission.
A comprehensive investigation is now underway to determine how the virus entered the facility. The impacted producer, the herd veterinarian, the Office of Alberta’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), and Alberta Pork are collaborating closely to contain the virus and prevent further spread.
Alberta Pork reported that as of February 19, 2026, all sites enrolled in its Environmental Disease Monitoring Program had tested negative for both PEDv and porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV).
Heightened Biosecurity Measures Strongly Advised
With containment efforts in progress, Alberta Pork and provincial veterinary officials are urging strict adherence to biosecurity protocols both on farm and throughout the transportation chain.
Producers are advised to:
- Enhance on farm biosecurity, including sanitation, controlled access, and staff protocols.
- Strengthen transportation biosecurity, especially around livestock trailers, loading areas, and high traffic facilities.
- Submit all swine manifests promptly, including farm to farm movements, to aid traceability.
- Treat any off farm site—such as abattoirs, assembly yards, or truck washes—as a potential source of PEDv exposure.
PEDv is known for its ability to spread rapidly via contaminated manure, transport equipment, clothing, and contact surfaces, making strict preventive measures essential.
Industry Monitoring Continues
Alberta Pork will continue to distribute updates as new information becomes available regarding the investigation, containment efforts, and any potential risks to the broader herd.
Producers with questions or concerns are encouraged to review the biosecruity information on the Alberta Pork website, or contact Alberta Pork or their herd veterinarian for guidance on strengthening biosecurity and monitoring herd health.
While PEDv is not a federally regulated disease, CFIA does have a National Swine Farm Level Biosecurity Standard available.