Vaccine innovation helps swine producers stay ahead of PCV2

Jan 23, 2023

Since emerging as a major pathogen 20 years ago, porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has become a fact of life for swine producers. “Virtually every farm is infected,” says Dr. James “Jamie” Lehman, DVM, MS, swine technical services veterinarian for Merck Animal Health. “It’s just a challenge of managing your immunity both in the sow herd and among your piglets.”

A large part of Dr. Lehman’s job is working with producers and veterinarians to troubleshoot PCV2 health problems. He sees pigs with PCV2 infections exhibiting poor growth rates, lethargy and skin lesions.1 Understanding the dynamics of each herd helps Merck Animal Health recommend PCV2 vaccine protocols that create the most positive outcome.

“We support customers with diagnostic plans and herd visits as needed, getting to know the operation and help plan the investigation.” Dr. Lehman says. “Every case is different, depending on the age of pig affected.”

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Video: Genomic Technologies and Public Trust - Dr. Ellen Goddard

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Ellen Goddard, Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta, discusses public acceptance of genomic technologies in pork production. She explains why disease resistance is viewed positively, how labeling affects trust, why farmers remain highly credible messengers, and how communication can shape consumer confidence around gene editing. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Not providing information is a choice that can affect long-term public trust."

Meet the guest: Dr. Ellen Goddard / ellen-goddard-11541138 is Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta and an agricultural economist. Her work focuses on consumer behavior, trust, livestock sectors, and public attitudes toward food technologies. She also specializes in economic modeling for pork, beef, and dairy systems. Learn more from Dr. Ellen Goddard on the Swine in Canada Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.