Last week, we announced that a 400-head hog operation in Alberta has contracted the porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) virus. Environmental surveillance performed at high-traffic pig sites in the province—including assembly yards, abattoirs and truck washes—have all tested negative for PED.
The investigation into the source of this virus is ongoing. Animal trace backs have been completed, and no transport links have been identified as potential sources.
No other cases of PED have been identified on farms in Alberta at this point.
Since the outbreak was discovered, no pigs have left the affected farm, and no pigs from the affected farm have been sent to market. No pigs will be moved from this farm until a veterinarian’s certificate can be provided.
The owner-operator of the farm, the farm’s herd veterinarian, Alberta Pork and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry continue to work together to fully investigate this outbreak and prevent the disease from spreading further.
Enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to reduce the risk of the virus leaving the farm site. All producers are reminded to be diligent with their biosecurity protocols during this critical time.
This is the first-ever reported case of PED in Alberta. The disease affects pigs but poses no risk to human health. This incident has not caused any food safety concerns, and pork products remain safe for consumption.
Source : Alberta Pork