SHIC Encourages Use of Standardized Outbreak Investigation App

Sep 16, 2024

The Swine Health Information Center’s Standardized Outbreak Investigation Program (SOIP), introduced in early 2023, includes both a downloadable standardized outbreak investigation Word-based form and a web-based application. Developed to meet an industry need for a standardized tool to conduct disease outbreak investigations, this expert-built application provides a mechanism for consistent data collection to identify gaps and drive sustainable progress on biosecurity. For use of the web-based version, veterinarians should contact the Iowa State University-based administrator for access, a one-time process, at soip@iastate.edu.

While both a downloadable and web-based version of the standardized outbreak investigation form is available, its developers and SHIC encourage the use of the app due to the benefits listed below:

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Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.