The province’s hog farmers, pork processors, and livestock transporters are being recognized for their collective efforts to strengthen biosecurity and significantly reduce the spread of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED) in Manitoba.
Manitoba Pork General Manager Cam Dahl said the industry’s coordinated response has delivered measurable results since the introduction of Manitoba’s PED Elimination Plan in 2023.
The plan emphasizes enhanced, industry-wide biosecurity, rapid response protocols, strict surveillance, and strong communication and collaboration across the sector. Since its implementation, PED outbreaks in Manitoba have fallen dramatically—from a peak of 132 cases in 2021–22 to single-digit totals annually in recent years.
Dahl noted that disease pressures remain elevated in other regions, particularly in the United States, where outbreaks of PED and PRRS continue to impact production. As a result, demand for Canadian pigs—especially isowean pigs—remains strong south of the border.
According to Dahl, 2025 stood out as a particularly positive year from a disease standpoint. Manitoba recorded just three PED outbreaks, well below what historical cycles would typically predict. He credited this outcome to the shared commitment of farmers, processors, and transporters working together to ensure biosecurity measures are consistently applied across the system.
Beyond PED, the biosecurity and biocontainment practices introduced through the elimination plan are also providing added protection against other swine diseases, reinforcing the long-term health and resilience of Manitoba’s hog sector.
Dahl emphasized that maintaining these standards will remain a priority as the industry moves through 2026, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and collaboration across the supply chain.
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