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U.S. ASF Outbreak Would Jeopardize 62 Thousand Pig Farmers and 550 Thousand Jobs

The Director of Swine Health with the National Pork Board, warns an African Swine Fever outbreak would jeopardise the livelihoods of 62 thousand pig farmers across the United States and 550 thousand people who are employed by the U.S. pork industry.

"African Swine Fever: Where it Exists and What's at Stake" was the focus of an African Swine Fever Action Week webinar hosted by USDA-APHIS earlier this month. Dr. Patrick Webb, the Director of Swine Health with the National Pork Board, notes 29.3 per cent of American pork was exported in 2020 and, in the event of an African Swine Fever outbreak in the United States, those exports would halt.

Clip-Dr. Patrick Webb-National Pork Board:

If you take a look at where we are as an industry today and compare it back to 1995, in 1995 the industry became a net exporter of pork and I think it was around about a billion pounds at that time but as we move forward through time, to last year, we're talking 6.6 billion pounds of pork that had been exported, so our export markets are very important to us.

The trade ramifications for one case of African Swine Fever here in the U.S. whether that's a commercial pig, a feral pig, or a backyard niche pig, it really doesn't matter, who has the pig, that one case is going to affect our trade and that is some significant loss.

Dr. Webb says, if you look at the per head value of having open markets, due to the sector's high health status and being free of African Swine Fever, Classical Swine Fever and Foot and Mouth Disease, we're looking at a 58 dollar and 65 cent return for pork producers.

Source : Farmscape

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Guardians of Swine Health - Unveiling the PRRS/PEDV Enigma with Dr. Gisele from Lanxess

Video: Guardians of Swine Health - Unveiling the PRRS/PEDV Enigma with Dr. Gisele from Lanxess

Welcome to a riveting episode of "Guardians of Swine Health," where we embark on a journey through the intricate tapestry of swine health. Joining us today is the esteemed Dr. Gisele from Lanxess, a beacon in the field of biosecurity. Together, we delve into the enigma of PRRS and PEDV, unraveling the complexities that challenge swine herds worldwide. Exploring the Viral Enigma: Dr. Gisele takes center stage, guiding us through a captivating PowerPoint presentation. She unravels the mysteries surrounding PRRS and PEDV, shedding light on the pathogens that threaten the respiratory, reproductive, and digestive systems of our beloved swine populations. Focus on Critical Gaps: Our exploration zeroes in on the critical gaps that persist during disinfection and cleaning practices. Dr. Gisele, with her wealth of expertise, navigates us through the nuances of biosecurity, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach in safeguarding swine herds. Cost Savings through Strategic Biosecurity: The presentation takes an insightful turn as Dr. Gisele unveils the economic impact of strategic biosecurity measures. She demonstrates how a robust approach not only protects swine health but also translates into substantial cost savings for farmers. It's a win-win for both the pigs and the pocketbook.

Key Points:

1. Understanding PRRS and PEDV:

o Dr. Gisele provides a comprehensive overview of the PRRS and PEDV pathogens, ensuring a deep understanding of the threats faced by swine herds.

2. Navigating Biosecurity Gaps:

o The discussion explores the critical gaps in current disinfection and cleaning practices, offering insights on how to fortify these weak points.

3. Cost-Effective Strategies:

o Dr. Gisele unveils actionable strategies that not only enhance swine health but also contribute to significant cost savings for farmers.

Conclusion: As Dr. Gisele concludes her presentation, we're left with a profound appreciation for the intricate dance between science and practicality in swine health. This episode serves as a beacon for farmers, veterinarians, and enthusiasts alike, guiding them in the relentless pursuit of safeguarding our swine herds against the enigmatic threats of PRRS and PEDV.