Abstract: Shortening Duration of Swine Exhibitions to Reduce Risk for Zoonotic Transmission of Influenza A Virus

Sep 23, 2022

Reducing zoonotic influenza A virus (IAV) risk in the United States necessitates mitigation of IAV in exhibition swine. We evaluated the effectiveness of shortening swine exhibitions to <72 hours to reduce IAV risk. We longitudinally sampled every pig daily for the full duration of 16 county fairs during 2014-2015 (39,768 nasal wipes from 6,768 pigs). In addition, we estimated IAV prevalence at 195 fairs during 2018-2019 to test the hypothesis that <72-hour swine exhibitions would have lower IAV prevalence. In both studies, we found that shortening duration drastically reduces IAV prevalence in exhibition swine at county fairs. Reduction of viral load in the barn within a county fair is critical to reduce the risk for interspecies IAV transmission and pandemic potential. Therefore, we encourage fair organizers to shorten swine shows to protect the health of both animals and humans.

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Video: Industry–University Collaborations in Swine Research - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt and Matt Einarson

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Jordan Gebhardt from Kansas State University and Matt Einarson from SAM Nutrition explore how academic–industry partnerships are driving innovation in swine nutrition. They share how collaborations support graduate training, create credibility, and translate research into practical strategies for producers. Discover real trial outcomes, sustainability initiatives, and why bridging science with industry is essential for the future. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The partnership with universities allows research to stay current, answering real questions that nutritionists and producers are asking today." - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt

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