News Archives
Articles presented here do not represent the opinions or views of the Canadian Swine Health Board. These updates are simply intended to demonstrate the diversity of current information being reported about swine health around the world.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Foot-and-mouth disease vaccine developed in US
With the US livestock industry on alert after a diagnosis of "mad cow" disease in California, the BBC has gained rare access to a high-security compound where a vaccine for another deadly animal virus is close to completion.
For full story »
Consultation on Alternative Service Delivery Policy
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is consulting with stakeholders to help develop a policy that will promote a more coordinated and consistent approach to how the Agency establishes and oversees alternative service delivery arrangements.
For full story »
Evaluation of immune responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in pigs during early stage of infection under farm conditions
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes chronic, economically devastating disease in pigs of all ages. Frequent mutations in the viral genome result in viruses with immune escape mutants. Irrespective of regular vaccination, control of PRRSV remains a challenge to swine farmers.
For full story »
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Russia introduces compulsory insurance against ASF
Starting January 2013 the government of Russia is planning to introduce compulsory insurance for pig farms against the outbreaks of African swine fever (ASF).
According to officials, this measure will be introduced in the most affected regions first. Currently, after identifying of the source of ASF on a farm, Russian authorities completely destroy all livestock and compensate all losses to the farmer.
For full story »
Minnesota Senator Proposes Livestock Risk Management Tool
Recognizing the global footprint of the U.S. pork industry and its associated risks, Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) got included in the Senate Agriculture Committee’s 2012 Farm Bill this past week a provision that will look at protecting hog farmers from closure of foreign markets. Klobuchar’s amendment, cosponsored by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and part of a package of riders offered as a manager’s amendment to the farm legislation, calls for a study on setting up catastrophic risk-management insurance for pork producers to cover input costs lost because of an animal disease or event that stops exports of U.S. pork..
For full story »
Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in animals and humans
Since 2004 MRSA emerged in animals, particularly in pigs and veal calves. This new MRSA variant was since its first appearance referred to as Livestock Associated-MRSA (LA-MRSA). In Europe and Northern America, LA-MRSA belongs predominantly to clonal complex (CC) 398 whereas in Asia ST9 seems to be dominant in pigs.
For full story »
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Milk and special diets fail to reduce S. suis in weaners
Adding either milk or special feed to weanling piglet diets does not reduce the number of weaned piglets with clinical signs of an infection with Streptococcus suis.
For full story »
RESEARCH: Powder disinfectant effective against PRRS virus
The use of a powder disinfectant has been proven to work as a good alternative to increase biosecurity in hog operations. This was shown in research by the University of Minnesota.
For full story »
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus and porcine circovirus type 2 infections in wild boar (Sus scrofa) in southwestern Germany
Samples were collected from 203 wild boars (Sus scrofa) hunted in Baden-Wurtemburg, Germany from November-January 2008 and 2009. Samples from the lung and tonsil were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) type 1 (European type) and type 2 (American type).
For full story »
Friday, May 4, 2012
Canadian Swine Health Board Issues Swine Health Awareness Bulletin
The Canadian Swine Health Board has issued a Swine Health Awareness Bulletin aimed at familiarizing pork producers with the symptoms of Brachyspira. Brachyspira is a family of bacteria that causes swine dysentery. In recent years swine dysentery had all but disappeared but a few cases have started to show up around the world. Dr. Al Theede, the Canadian Swine Health Board's research coordinator, explains the one page swine health bulletin, English on one side and French on the other, is intended to make producers aware of what to look for.
For full story »
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Confirmed in New Mexico Horses
Veterinary Services of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed vesicular stomatitis virus infection on an equine premises in Otero County, New Mexico. This is the first detection of active VSV in the United States since June 2010.
For full story »
Development, aims and status quo of the EU animal disease law
The development of EC legislation is outlined using swine fever and foot and mouth disease as an example, starting with the possibility of vaccinating against both animal diseases in the 1980s without substantially restricting trade with vaccinated animals or products of these animals, right up to a policy of non-vaccination with the realisation of the single market with significant restrictions on intra-Community trade if the option of an emergency vaccination were to be used.
For full story »
Monday, May 7, 2012
Tim Hortons sends message on gestation stalls
Tim Hortons today called upon the pork industry and its suppliers to eliminate gestation stalls for sows and to develop clear plans and timelines by the end of the year to phase out the housing systems.
The company will give preferred sourcing to pork suppliers that have documented plans to phase-out the use of gestation stalls.
For full story »
National Biosecurity Training Program Participation Exceeds Expectations
The Canadian Swine Health Board's biosecurity coordinator for Manitoba reports participation among the province's pork producers in the National Biosecurity Training Program has exceeded all expectations. The National Biosecurity Training Program is based on the Canadian Swine Health Board's National Biosecurity Standard and was developed to familiarize Canada's pork producers with the principles that will help protect their operations from the introduction of disease and offer advice for improving biosecurity.
For full story »
Classical swine fever and avian influenza epidemics: lessons learned
Experience with recent large-scale epidemics of Classical Swine Fever and Avian Influenza--among others in the Netherlands--have teached us several lessons that should prepare us better for future outbreaks. Among others, improving early detection of outbreaks--by using syndrome surveillance systems--is a key factor, in which farmers and veterinary practitioners have an imminent role.
For full story »
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Pig worm warning as summer approaches
Pig producers should maintain extra vigilance over their worming strategies during the coming months to combat the seasonal increase in Ascaris suum - the number one worm problem affecting both breeding and slaughter stock.
For full story »
New PRRS vaccine approved for young pigs
Canadian veterinarians will be able to provide hog producers with a new modified live vaccine to help protect young pigs against the respiratory form of the virus causing PRRS.
For full story »
Identification of a Highly Transmissible Animal-Independent Staphylococcus aureus ST398 Clone with Distinct Genomic and Cell Adhesion Properties
A methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clone known as ST398 has emerged as a major cause of acute infections in individuals who have close contact with livestock. More recently, the emergence of an animal-independent ST398 methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) clone has been documented in several countries.
For full story »
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Swine Health Intelligence Network Expected to Improve Response to New Swine Disease Threats
A national communications network being created on behalf of the Canadian swine industry is expected to improve the ability of swine veterinarians to respond to new disease threats. To address gaps identified in the national surveillance needs within the Canadian swine industry the Canadian Swine Health Board has initiated the development of the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network.
For full story »
New Zealand officials now want better checks on pig swill
Primary Industries Ministry officials want more effective enforcement of regulations banning the feeding of raw meat to pigs. Officials say this is essential after winning a High Court case that clears the way for new import standards allowing untreated pork from countries that have the pig disease PRRS, (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome).
For full story »
Detection of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) antibodies in oral fluid specimens using a commercial PRRSV serum antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
Experimental and field oral fluid samples of defined status in reference to exposure of swine with PRRSV were used to derive the kinetics of detectable concentrations of antibody against PRRSV.
Immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgA were readily detected in oral fluid specimens from populations in which PRRSV infection was synchronized among all individuals but not in samples collected in commecial herds.
For full story »
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Pork Producers Encouraged to Be Aware of the Signs of Brachyspira
The Canadian Swine Health Board is encouraging pork producers to make themselves aware of the signs of Brachyspira and what they can do to keep their operations free of the infection. Brachyspira is the name of the family of bacteria that causes swine dysentery.
To familiarize pork producers with the signs of Brachyspira the Canadian Swine Health Board has issued a Swine Health Awareness Bulletin which outlines the infection and what to look for.
For full story »
Members of the UGPVB (“Union of Meat Producers of Britanny”) have decided not to import piglets
The UGPVB announced by way of a News release on Friday that its 11 Pork sector members decided unanimously on April 27, 2012, that they would no longer import foreign piglets. The UGPVB has asked the OVS Porc Bretagne (“Brittany Swine Health Board”) to be extra careful on this issue.
For full story »
Emergence and pathogenicity of highly pathogenic Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
Highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (HP-PRRS) characterized by high fever, high morbidity, and high mortality in pigs of all ages emerged in China in 2006 and spread rapidly throughout Southeast Asia. In July 2010, a highly contagious swine disease with clinical signs similar to those of HP-PRRS was observed in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR).
For full story »
Friday, May 11, 2012
Swine Health Intelligence Network Expected to Improve Response to Emerging Disease Threats
The Canadian Swine Health Board is confident improved communications among swine veterinarians across Canada will improve their ability to detect and respond to emerging diseases. To address gaps identified within the Canadian swine industry's national surveillance system the Canadian Swine Health Board is spearheading the creation of a new national Swine Health Intelligence Network.
For full story »
UN calls for increased efforts to stop spread of foot and mouth disease in Middle East
The United Nations food agency today called for an increase in efforts to stop foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) from spreading in the Middle East and North Africa after a new case of the disease was detected in the Gaza Strip. "Diseases simply do not respect international boundaries, and if FMD
SAT2 reaches deeper into the Middle East it could spread throughout vast areas, threatening the Gulf countries - even southern and eastern Europe, and perhaps beyond" the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Chief Veterinary Officer and head of its Animal Health Service, Juan Lubroth, said in a news release.
For full story »
Brucellosis due to Brucella suis in a swine herd associated with a human clinical case in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Brucella suis has been recognized as the major etiological agent of human brucellosis in areas free from Brucella melitensis infection. However, with changes in swine management, the occurrence of swine brucellosis has decreased as has the human incidence of B. suis infection. A swine brucellosis outbreak within a herd from Jaboticabal (São Paulo, Brazil) was detected in July 2006. The herd comprised approximately 300 sows and 1,500 finishing animals.
For full story »
Monday, May 14, 2012
PRRS Corner: Evaluation of the Long-Term Effect of Air Filtration on the Occurrence of New PRRSV Infections in Large Breeding Herds in Swine-Dense Regions
Airborne transmission of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a risk factor for the infection of susceptible populations. Therefore, a long-term sustainability study of air filtration as a means to reduce this risk was conducted.
For full story »
CFIA restricts New Mexico horse imports to prevent spread of disease
Horses from the American state of New Mexico are, effectively immediately, no longer welcome in Canada. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) made the ruling this week after of an outbreak of vesicular stomatitis among horses in New Mexico. Because the disease can spread to other animals such as cattle, sheep and swine the agency decided it couldn’t take the risk of allowing any suspected carriers of the disease into Canada.
For full story »
Age-dependent prevalence of antibodies cross-reactive to the influenza A(H3N2) variant virus in sera collected in Norway in 2011
Antibody cross-reactivity to the influenza A(H3N2) variant virus recently reported in the United States, was investigated in Norwegian sera. Seroprevalence was 40% overall, and 71% in people born between 1977 and 1993. The most susceptible age groups were children and people aged around 50 years. The high immunity in young adults is likely to be due to strong priming infection with similar viruses in the 1990s.
For full story »
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Emergence and dynamics of influenza super-strains
Influenza super-strains can emerge through recombination of strains from birds, pigs, and humans. However, once a new recombinant strain emerges, it is not clear whether the strain is capable of sustaining an outbreak. In certain cases, such strains have caused major influenza pandemics.
For full story »
Identification of swine H1N2/pandemic H1N1 reassortant influenza virus in pigs, United States
In October and November 2010, novel H1N2 reassortant influenza viruses were identified from pigs showing mild respiratory signs that included cough and depression. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis showed that the novel H1N2 reassortants possesses HA and NA genes derived from recent H1N2 swine isolates similar to those isolated from Midwest.
For full story »
Optimization of an antibiotic sensitivity assay for Mycoplasma hyosynoviae and susceptibility profiles of field isolates from 1997 to 2011
Mycoplasma hyosynoviae is a common agent responsible for polyarthritis leading to decreased production in swine herds worldwide.
For full story »
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Vietnam still under PRRS attack
There have been reports of new outbreaks of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in the northern provinces of Vietnam. The provinces affected with the outbreak now are Bac Ninh and Lao Cai. Currently the total number of provinces is six - Dien Bien, Yen Bai, Nam Dinh, Phu Tho, Lao Cai and Bac Ninh - according to Hoang Van Nam, head of Animal Health Department. He added that there is a risk that PRRS will continue to spread in the north.
For full story »
Interspecies interactions and potential Influenza A virus risk in small swine farms in Peru
The recent avian influenza epidemic in Asia and the H1N1 pandemic demonstrated that influenza A viruses pose a threat to global public health. The animal origins of the viruses confirmed the potential for interspecies transmission. Swine are hypothesized to be prime "mixing vessels" due to the dual receptivity of their trachea to human and avian strains. Additionally, avian and human influenza viruses have previously been isolated in swine. Therefore, understanding interspecies contact on smallholder swine farms and its potential role in the transmission of pathogens such as influenza virus is very important.
For full story »
A case-control study on the occurrence of Salmonella spp. in the environment of pigs
The objective of this study was to compare the occurrence of Salmonella spp. found in the animal environment in pig herds with different Salmonella risks (61 herds with low seroprevalence, 81 herds with high seroprevalence) on a broad scale.
For full story »
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Classical swine fever, Guatemala
Information received on 12 May 2012 from Dr Miguel Angel Azanon Robles, Director de Salud Animal, Area Zoosanitaria, Unidad de Normas y Regulaciones, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganaderia y Alimentacion, Guatemala. Epidemiological comments The outbreaks were detected by veterinarians from the official services. The event is limited to these farms. No more cases observed. Epidemiological surveillance goes on at national level.
For full story »
Animal Disease Research Misses the Human Perspective, Say Researchers
Animal disease research concentrates too much on the behaviour of micro organisms while ignoring the role played by human beings; we need to take more account of the human dimension if the work of scientists is to be translated effectively into policy, according to scientists at Lancaster and Liverpool universities.
For full story »
Vitamin E and selenium levels are within normal range in pigs diagnosed with mulberry heart disease and evidence for viral involvement in the syndrome is lacking
Mulberry heart disease (MHD) in pigs is characterized by lesions of acute haemorrhagic myocarditis and myocardial necrosis. The objectives of this study were to determine the levels of vitamin E and selenium and 13 other trace minerals in heart and liver tissues and to determine the prevalence of certain viral infections in heart tissues from MHD-affected and MHD-unaffected pigs and the vitamin E and selenium concentration in feed samples from selected farms with MHD.
For full story »
Friday, May 18, 2012
A biotracing model of Salmonella in the pork production chain
In biotracing systems, downstream chain information and model-based approaches are used to trace the sources of microbial contamination in a food chain. This article includes the results of a biotracing model for Salmonella in the pork slaughter process chain.
For full story »
Livestock veterinarians at high risk of acquiring methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST398
The prevalence and risk factors associated with livestock-associated MRSA (LA-MRSA) carriage was examined in Danish and Belgian veterinarians.
For full story »
Salmonella prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility from the national animal health monitoring system Swine 2000 and 2006 studies
Concern about Salmonella contamination of food is compounded by fear that antimicrobials traditionally used to combat the infection will become useless due to rising antibiotic resistance. Livestock, in particular swine, often are blamed for illnesses caused by Salmonella and for increasing antibiotic resistance due to use of antibiotics in pigs.
For full story »
Monday, May 21, 2012
Swine Atrophic Rhinitis Caused by Pasteurella multocida Toxin and Bordetella Dermonecrotic Toxin
Atrophic rhinitis is a widespread and economically important swine disease caused by Pasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica. The disease is characterized by atrophy of the nasal turbinate bones, which results in a shortened and deformed snout in severe cases. P. multocida toxin and B. bronchiseptica dermonecrotic toxin have been considered to independently or cooperatively disturb the osteogenesis of the turbinate bone by inhibiting osteoblastic differentiation and/or stimulating bone resorption by osteoclasts.
For full story »
Comparative analyses of the complete mitochondrial genomes of Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum from humans and pigs
Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum are parasitic nematodes living in the small intestine of humans and pigs, and can cause the disease ascariasis. For long, there has been controversy as to whether the two ascaridoid taxa represent the same species due to their significant resemblances in morphology.
For full story »
Culturing and molecular methods to assess the infectivity of porcine circovirus from treated effluent of swine manure
Samples were collected at the effluent of two swine manure treatment systems and were analyzed by qPCR to determine the presence and amounts of porcine circovirus (PCV2) genetic material. ST cells were inoculated with the positive samples to evaluate virus viability and for viral genotyping.
For full story »
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
African Swine Fever Represents Growing Global Threat
Scientists from around the world came to Kansas State University’s Biosecurity Research Institute (BRI) May 15-17 to take a global look at the highly contagious viral disease, African swine fever (ASF). The researchers assembled to give updates on research and in some cases, the status of ASF in their countries.
For full story »
Assessment of Swine Worker Exposures to Dust and Endotoxin during Hog Load-Out and Power Washing
Field measurements of personal and area dust and endotoxin concentrations were obtained while agricultural workers performed two work tasks that have been previously unreported: hog load-out and swine building power washing. Hog load-out involves moving hogs from their pens in finishing buildings into a truck for transport to a meat processor.
For full story »
Detection of Human Foodborne and Zoonotic Viruses on Irrigated, Field-Grown Strawberries
This study evaluated the presence of pathogenic human and zoonotic viruses on irrigated, field-grown strawberries. Norovirus genogroup I, rotavirus and swine hepatitis E virus genogroup 3 were detected on strawberries and irrigation water is suspected as the contamination origin.
For full story »
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
RESEARCH: MRSA bacteria less common on organic pig farms
Recent farm research in the Netherlands shows that the Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria are less prevalent on organic pig farms when compared to regular pig farms.
For full story »
Molecular epidemiology of Brucella abortus isolates from cattle, elk, and bison in the United States: 1998 - 2011
A variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) protocol targeting 10 loci in the Brucella abortus genome was used to assess genetic diversity among 366 field isolates recovered from cattle, bison, and elk in the greater Yellowstone area (GYA) and Texas during 1998 - 2011. Minimum spanning tree (MST) and unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) analyses of VNTR data identified 237 different VNTR types, among which 14 prominent clusters of isolates could be identified.
For full story »
A quantitative approach towards a better understanding of the dynamics of Salmonella spp. in a pork slaughter-line
Pork contributes significantly to the public health disease burden caused by Salmonella infections. During the slaughter process pig carcasses can become contaminated with Salmonella. Contamination at the slaughter-line is initiated by pigs carrying Salmonella on their skin or in their faeces. Another contamination route could be resident flora present on the slaughter equipment.
For full story »
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Support For Canadian Swine Health Board Initiatives Remains Strong
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports pork industry stakeholders appear receptive to maintaining programs developed to protect swine herds from disease after federal funding runs out. In response to a devastating porcine circovirus outbreak in the mid-2000s, the federal government provided 75 million dollars to create the Canadian Swine Health Board and develop programs to reduce the spread of disease.
For full story »
Trapping as an alternative method of eradicating classical swine fever in a wild boar population in Bulgaria
Between August and November 2009, eight cases of classical swine fever
(CSF) occurred in young wild boar in a 25-km2 oak forest 3 km south of the river Danube in the north-eastern part of Bulgaria. The wild boar population within the affected area was estimated to be 156 animals, or approximately six boar per km2. To control and eradicate the disease, and in addition to vaccination and hunting, trapping was used to reduce the boar population to below two animals per km2. In total, 124 wild boar were removed from the infected area within three months.
For full story »
Modern pig farming in the People's Republic of China: growth and veterinary challenges
Cyclical oversupply and non-profitability situations have led to pig industry consolidations in the People's Republic of China, with many smaller farmers leaving the industry. In 2007, pork supply worsened due to outbreaks of 'high fever blue-ear disease', a complex disease issue that includes highly virulent porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, porcine circovirus and classical swine fever.
For full story »
Friday, May 25, 2012
African Swine Fever spreads throughout Africa, Russia
The African Swine Fever (ASF) virus is not a new disease. In fact, it has been around for decades. However, the bleeding disorder has recently been showing up more often, rearing its head in regions where it has not been seen before. With growing presence in Africa and Russia, the European Union (EU) could be the next nation to be affected by ASF.
For full story »
Government of Canada Supports Manitoba Hog Industry
Manitoba pork producers will be able to improve the health of their herds and boost their bottom lines thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. Member of Parliament Merv Tweed (Brandon-Souris), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, announced today an investment of over $200,000 for two projects with the Manitoba Pork Council.
For full story »
Potential role of noncommercial swine populations in the epidemiology and control of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
Objective-To assess the role of noncommercial pigs in the epidemiology of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus. Design-Seroepidemiologic study and survey study. Animals-661 pigs from which blood samples were collected at slaughter and 32 pigs from which blood samples were collected longitudinally. Procedures-Spatial databases of commercial farms and 4-H participation were evaluated by use of commercial geographic information systems software.
For full story »
Monday, May 28, 2012
Trade relations between Russia and EU worsen
Denmark has announced a complete ban on exports of breeding pigs into Russian, Belarus and Kazakhstan after trade relations between Russia and the EU worsened.
For full story »
Swine Veterinarians Ask for More Active Role
The American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) officers and staff met recently at the AASV office in Perry, IA, in an effort to improve communication and understanding between the two organizations.
For full story »
Assessment of performance of selected serological tests for diagnosing brucellosis in pigs
Swine brucellosis due to Brucella suis is considered an emerging zoonotic disease whose control is based on serological testing and the subsequent culling of seropositive animals or the full depopulation of affected flocks. Here we assessed the performance of several serological tests (Rose Bengal Test [RBT], indirect ELISA [i-ELISA], blocking ELISA [b-ELISA], and two competitive ELISAs [c-ELISA]) for diagnosing swine brucellosis caused by B. suis biovar 2.
For full story »
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
The World Assembly of OIE Delegates elects Dr. Karin Schwabenbauer as President of the Council
On this 80th General Session the OIE World Assembly representing 178 Member Countries elected Dr. Karin Schwabenbauer as President for a three-year term. Dr. Schwabenbauer from Germany is the first woman elected in this position in the history of the organisation; she succeeds Dr Carlos Correa Messuti from Uruguay who was elected in 2009.
For full story »
Pandemic 2009 H1N1 vaccination produces antibodies against multiple flu strains
The pandemic 2009 H1N1 vaccine can generate antibodies in vaccinated individuals not only against the H1N1 virus, but also against other influenza virus strains including H5N1 and H3N2. This discovery adds an important new dimension to the finding last year that people infected with pandemic 2009 H1N1 virus produced high levels of antibodies that were broadly cross-reactive against a variety of flu strains.
For full story »
Molecular characterization of African swine fever virus isolates originating from outbreaks in the Russian Federation between 2007 and 2011
African swine fever is one of the most important viral diseases of pigs and which caused significant economic damage on the pig production worldwide. Nowadays, it is still present on the African continent, in Transcaucasus countries (TCC), on Island of Sardinia and in Russia. Outbreaks of the disease have been reported in Russia for the last four years, affected especially the Southern Federal District of the country.
For full story »
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Pork Industry Stakeholders Urged to Maintain Support for Canadian Swine Health Board Initiatives
The chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board says it will be up to industry to maintain a range of initiatives that have helped swine producers improve biosecurity on their farms once federal funding runs out. With funding provided by the federal government, the Canadian Swine Health Board was created to develop programs to help Canada's pork producers keep their herds free of disease. With federal funding due to end March 31, 2013, the board has called on industry to commit the support needed to keep those programs going. Canadian Swine Health Board Chair Florian Possberg says producers see the need to remain vigilant and proactive and the response from other industry players has also been supportive.
For full story »
Vietnamese provinces urged to act on blue-ear disease
A veterinary officer vaccinates pigs against blue-ear disease at a small-holding in Luong Tai District, northern Bac Ninh Province. – VNA/VNS Photo Danh Lam HCM CITY — The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development wants 14 vulnerable provinces and cities to take stronger action against the spread of the blue-ear disease among pigs.
For full story »
Potassium channel complex autoimmunity induced by inhaled brain tissue aerosol
Patients, coworkers, and mice exposed to liquefied brain tissue had an autoantibody profile dominated by neural cation channel immunoglobulin Gs (IgGs). The most compelling link between patients and exposed mice was magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of grossly swollen spinal nerve roots. Autoantibody responses in patients and mice were dose-dependent and declined after antigen exposure ceased.
For full story »
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Stepped Up Biosecurity Offers Best Defense Against Brachyspira
The research coordinator with Canadian Swine Health Board says stepped up biosecurity offers the best defense against the introduction of Brachyspira into the swine herd. Brachyspira is the name of the family of bacteria that causes swine dysentery. To familiarize pork producers with Brachyspira the Canadian Swine Health Board is circulating a Swine Health Awareness Bulletin which outlines the infection and its symptoms. Dr. Al Theede, the Canadian Swine Health Board's research coordinator, says this is an old disease that had all but disappeared and over the past ten to 15 years hadn't been a big concern but which has shown up around the world.
For full story »
Swine influenza virus infection dynamics in two pig farms; results of a longitudinal assessment
n order to assess the dynamics of influenza virus infection in pigs, serological and virological follow-ups were conducted in two whole batches of pigs from two different farms (F1 and F2), from 3 weeks of age until market age. Anti-swine influenza virus (SIV) antibodies (measured by ELISA and hemagglutination inhibition) and nasal virus shedding (measured by RRT-PCR and isolation in embryonated chicken eggs and MDCK cells) were carried out periodically.
For full story »
A novel bead-based assay to detect specific antibody responses against Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella spiralis simultaneously in sera of experimentally infected swine
A novel, bead-based flow cytometric assay was developed for simultaneous determination of antibody responses against Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella spiralis in pig serum. This high throughput screening assay could be an alternative for well known indirect tests like ELISA.
For full story »
Friday, June 1, 2012
Colombia reports Anthrax swine deaths
Colombia has reported to the OIE an anthrax outbreak in sheep, goats, cattle and swine. The two outbreaks are located in the north of the country, in the La Guajira province in the town of Manaure.
For full story »
PigGen Canada seeks part-time Executive Director
PigGen Canada is a non-profit corporation representing the vast majority of genetic suppliers in the Canadian swine genetics industry.
For more information, visit www.piggencanada.com. PigGen Canada is seeking a part-time Executive Director (4 days/month). Applications can be submitted electronically to admin@piggencanada.com including expected remuneration. For more information, contact PigGen Canada administrator Penny Laythorpe toll free at 1-855-246-2333 Ext 302.
The relation between farm specific factors and prevalence of Clostridium difficile in slaughter pigs
Foodborne ingestion through pork products of Clostridium difficile has been suggested a possible route of transmission of C. difficile from pigs to humans. To determine whether C. difficile bacteria are present in the intestines of slaughter pigs, rectum contents of 677 slaughter pigs from 52 farms were collected at the slaughterhouse.
For full story »
Monday, June 4, 2012
Foot-and-mouth policy to increase Australia's preparedness
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has developed a national policy for vaccination against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), boosting Australia’s preparedness against the disease. DAFF Deputy Secretary, Rona Mellor, said vaccination is increasingly being recognised as an important part of controlling an outbreak of FMD.
For full story »
Warm weather increases concerns over feral swine diseases
With the onset of summer, animal health officials are warning Southwest farmers and ranchers to take steps now to help manage feral swine populations on their property in an effort to reduce the risk of spreading diseases among domestic animals.
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Comparative pathogenicity of type 1 and type 2 isolates of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) in a young pig infection model
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) isolates are classified in two different genotypes, based on genomic heterogeneity: type 1, which comprises European type isolates, and type 2, which includes North American type isolates.
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Tuesday, June 5, 2012
FDA appeals order to act on antibiotics in animal feed
The Food and Drug Administration is appealing a federal magistrate's ruling that the FDA must act on its long-standing proposal to ban the use of three antibiotics in animal feed because they may contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria. FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg, Director of the Center for Veterinary Medicine Bernadette Dunham and Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius together filed an appeal with the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn the March decision.
For full story »
NPPC raises concern over NARMS data collection
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has raised a concern over an update to the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Strategic Plan announced last week by the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine. NARMS is the national public health surveillance system that tracks antibiotic resistance in foodborne bacteria.
For full story »
First report on IncN plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance gene qnrS1 in porcine Escherichia coli in Europe
Plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) of enterobacteria encoded by qnr genes is an emerging concern in human and veterinary medicine. Here we aimed to study PMQR of porcine Escherichia coli in two large piggeries in Romania and Hungary.
For full story »
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
New Dutch Research Supports Alliance to Save Our Antibiotics
Dutch scientists have found much lower levels of antibiotic use and prevalence of MRSA on organic pig farms compared with non-organic pig farms. Their research indicates that 3 per cent of organic pigs in the Netherlands are carrying livestock-associated MRSA, compared with 38 per cent of non-organic pigs. This type of MRSA was first found in 2003 and is of particular concern because it can spread to humans causing serious infections.
For full story »
MRSA in pork production shower facilities: an intervention to reduce occupational exposure
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal colonization has been documented in swine and swine workers. MRSA has also been found in the shower facilities of conventional swine farms. We previously conducted a review of the literature to identify measures used to reduce MRSA prevalence in athletic facilities. In this study, we evaluated those measures for adaptability to the pork production environment. A best practices protocol was developed to reduce MRSA levels in pork production shower facilities and implemented in two conventional swine production systems.
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Identification of Arcanobacterium (Trueperella) abortisuis, a novel species of veterinary importance, by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)
In the present study A. (T.) abortisuis isolated from pigs and bovines could be reliably identified by determination of phenotypic properties, genotypically by polymerase chain reaction with the help of A. (T.) abortisuis 16s-23S rDNA intergenic spacer region specific oligonucleotide primer and by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time Of Flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The latter appeared to be a promising tool for fast and cost effective identification of this species and might help to elucidate the role A.(T.) abortisuis plays in infections of pigs, bovines, possibly other animals or humans.
For full story »
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Epi on the Island - June 20-22, 2012
Epi on the Island will be offered in 2 modules: Module 1, a Network Analysis Course, will be offered from June 20-22, 2012.Module 2, a course in DiagnosticTest Evaluation - with Emphasis on Latent Class Analysis, will be offered from June 25-28, 2012. More details on the course content and instructors, as well as a link to online registration, can be found on the CVER website at cver.upei.ca. For more information, please call 902.620.5049 or email lnewson@upei.ca
Tangible actions in support of animal health - Dedication of the new Complexe de diagnostic et d'épidémiosurveillance vétérinaires du Québec and allocation of $9.8 million in funding to the Centre hospitalier universitaire vétérinaire
The Minister of Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation, Minister responsible for the Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region and Nord-du-Québec Region, and Member of the Quebec National Assembly for Abitibi-Est, Pierre Corbeil, today dedicated the new Complexe de diagnostic et d'épidémiosurveillance vétérinaires du Québec in Saint-Hyacinthe with the rector of the Université de Montréal, Guy Breton, in attendance.
For full story »
Regionalisation of Germany by data of agricultural structures
In order to simplify the design of representative studies in animal populations the structural differences of animal husbandry (cattle, pigs and laying hens) in Germany were characterised. Several regions were defined and thus districts identified which are typical for the respective region and can be regarded as representatives for the whole region.
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Friday, June 8, 2012
New publication related to the Canadian version of the PADRAP (biosecurity)
Two years ago, the CDPQ used the Production Animal Disease Risk Assessment Program (PADRAP) to create a picture of biosecurity on hog farms in the Beauce region (report on our site). The PADRAP, an American tool, enables each farm and production system to assess their current biosecurity protocols and compare them to those in all of North America.
For full story »
DDGS not at Fault for Mulberry Heart Disease
Some industry professionals have described distillers’ dried grains with solubles as the biggest change in feeding livestock and poultry since soybean meal was introduced several decades ago. Whether or not you agree, there’s no doubt that DDGS is having a major impact — both positive and negative — on pork production.
For full story »
Antibody repertoire development in fetal and neonatal piglets. XXIII: Fetal piglets infected with a vaccine strain of PRRS Virus display the same immune dysregulation seen in isolator piglets
The Ig levels and antibody repertoire diversification in fetal piglets infected with an attenuated Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) were measured.
For full story »
Friday, June 8, 2012
New publication related to the Canadian version of the PADRAP (biosecurity)
Two years ago, the CDPQ used the Production Animal Disease Risk Assessment Program (PADRAP) to create a picture of biosecurity on hog farms in the Beauce region (report on our site). The PADRAP, an American tool, enables each farm and production system to assess their current biosecurity protocols and compare them to those in all of North America.
For full story »
DDGS not at Fault for Mulberry Heart Disease
Some industry professionals have described distillers’ dried grains with solubles as the biggest change in feeding livestock and poultry since soybean meal was introduced several decades ago. Whether or not you agree, there’s no doubt that DDGS is having a major impact — both positive and negative — on pork production.
For full story »
Antibody repertoire development in fetal and neonatal piglets. XXIII: Fetal piglets infected with a vaccine strain of PRRS Virus display the same immune dysregulation seen in isolator piglets
The Ig levels and antibody repertoire diversification in fetal piglets infected with an attenuated Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) were measured.
For full story »
Monday, June 11, 2012
Inauguration of the new "Complexe de diagnostic et d'épidémiosurveillance vétérinaires" in Saint-Hyacinthe
The minister of Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation, Pierre Corbeil, inaugurated on June 4th in Saint-Hyacinthe, the new Complexe de diagnostic et d’épidémiosurveillance vétérinaires du Québec, with the rector of the Université de Montréal, Guy Breton, in attendance.
For full story »
World Meat Congress - Battling Threat of African Swine Fever
The upsurge of African Swine Fever, particularly in Russia, and the failure of conventional prevention and control measures to counter its spread have underlined the need for a major shift in approach, writes Chris Harris from the World Meat Congress in Paris.
For full story »
Outbreak of reproductive disorders and mycobacteriosis in swine associated with a single strain of Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis
In a breeding and fattening pig farm an increasing number of cases of abortion and generalized mycobacteriosis at slaughter occurred. Pathological findings compatible with mycobacteriosis, acid-fast organisms in tissues, and isolation of mycobacteria from tissue samples including fetuses, lungs and reproductive organs from sows, genital swabs, mesenteric lymph nodes, and from a sperm sample revealed the cause of the disease.
For full story »
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Canadian Swine Health Board’s National Biosecurity Training Program Highlighted at International Conference
The Canadian Swine Health Board (CSHB) will be presenting its National Biosecurity programming to the International Pig Veterinary Society (IPVS) Congress later this week in Jeju, South Korea. Held every two years, the IPVS meeting brings together swine health professionals from around the world who learn of the latest developments in the global swine industry.
For full story »
New York judge orders FDA to act on animal antibiotics
A federal judge in the US has ordered the Food and Drug Administration to evaluate the safety risks to human health associated with the widespread use of antibiotics in food-producing animals, saying the agency has done "shockingly little" since proposing in the 1970s to order a substantial reduction in the use of antibiotics in animal feed.
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Intranasal delivery of an adjuvanted modified live porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus vaccine reduces ROS production
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced predominantly by phagocytic cells in response to microbial infections. When produced at optimal levels ROS have potent antimicrobial properties. However, excessive production of ROS induces apoptosis/necrosis of infected as well as bystander cells, resulting in inflammatory pathology.
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Wednesday, June 13, 2012
New Foot-And-Mouth Disease Vaccine Gets Licensed
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that the world’s first molecular foot-and-mouth (FMD) vaccine has been granted conditional license for use in cattle by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB). Developed at DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), this is the first licensed FMD vaccine that can be manufactured on the U.S. mainland.
For full story »
Research Key to Addressing Brachyspira
The U.S.-based National Pork Board is confident research holds the key to addressing growing concerns related to the spread of Brachyspira. Brachyspira is the bacteria that causes swine dysentery. Symptoms include diarrhea, sometimes bloody diarrhea and chronic weight loss in pigs. Dr. Paul Sundberg, the National Pork Board's Vice President Science and Technology, says a few years ago the industry appeared on the brink of eradicating Brachyspira but recently the number of reports of outbreaks has been increasing.
For full story »
Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Leptospira spp. Infection in Technified Swine Farms in the State of Alagoas, Brazil Risk Factors Associated with Leptospira spp. in Swine Farms
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and to identify the risk factors associated with Leptospira spp. infection in technified pig farms in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. To compose sample for the prevalence study, 342 pigs were used (312 sows and 30 boars) proceeding from seven swine farms distributed in five districts of the state of Alagoas, Brazil.
For full story »
Thursday, June 14, 2012
OIE’s Vallat stresses science, communication in international sector
Bernard Vallat, director general of the World Animal Health Organization (OIE), told the World Meat Congress here that science is the basis on which an increasingly international meat industry must operate. The World Meat Congress is a biannual meeting of members of the Paris-based International Meat Secretariat, at which issues that cross national boundaries are discussed and information shared.
For full story »
Potential Economic Consequences of Foot and Mouth Outbreak Examined
An economics professor with Iowa State University estimates the American pork industry would lose an average of $1.8 billion per year over 10 years in the event of a foot and mouth disease outbreak in the United States. Foot and mouth disease is a highly infectious viral disease that affects cloven-hooved animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, antelope, deer, bison and other bovids.
For full story »
High prevalence and genotypes of Toxoplasma gondii isolated from organic pigs in northern USA
The ingestion of undercooked pork infected with Toxoplasma gondii is considered an important source of transmission of this parasite. While T. gondii infection in confinement raised market pigs (market pigs are typically used for fresh, unprocessed pork products) in the USA has decreased significantly over the last 20 years, infection levels in pigs with access to the outdoors can be quite high.
For full story »
Friday, June 15, 2012
Canadian chicken farmers address antimicrobial resistance
Certain antibiotics currently used in livestock and poultry production could someday be limited to use in human medicine, according to the chair of Chicken Farmers of Canada. Due to concerns about resistance and the potential impact on human health, CFC and other animal agriculture organisations are examining ways of reducing the use of antimicrobial agents in food production, especially those that are also used in human medicine.
For full story »
Stepped-Up Biosecurity Offers Best Protection from Brachyspira Infection
The Vice President Science and Technology with the National Pork Board recommends stepped-up biosecurity as the best means of protecting swine herds from the risk of Brachyspira infection. Brachyspira is the bacteria that causes swine dysentery. Symptoms include diarrhea, sometimes bloody diarrhea and chronic weight loss in pigs. Although the industry appeared on the brink of eradicating Brachyspira a few years ago, recently the number of outbreaks has been increasing.
For full story »
Pathogenicity and transmission in pigs of the novel A(H3N2)v influenza virus isolated from humans and characterization of swine H3N2 viruses isolated in 2010-2011
Swine influenza virus (SIV) H3N2 with triple reassorted internal genes (TRIG) has been enzootic in U.S. since 1998. Transmission of the 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) virus to pigs in the U.S. was followed by reassortment with endemic SIV, resulting in reassorted viruses that include novel H3N2 genotypes (rH3N2p). Between July-December 2011, 12 cases of human infections with swine-lineage H3N2 viruses containing the pandemic matrix (pM) gene (A(H3N2)v) were detected.
For full story »
Monday, June 18, 2012
New programme brings companies together to combat animal disease
A new research club, launched today (13 June 2012), will unite farmers, breeders and pharmaceutical companies in the fight against animal diseases. The Animal Health Research Club (ARC) will invest around £9.5M of public and private money in research projects which aim to improve animal health and welfare through better understanding, management and control of pests and pathogens. The club is being led by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), with additional funding from 12 company members and the Scottish Government.
For full story »
NPPC: Growth Promotion Antibiotics Will Disappear in 3-5 Years
The chief veterinarian for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) says producers should start preparing for the loss of production uses of antibiotics in swine production. "We are expecting in the next 3-5 years that the pork industry will lose growth promotion labels for most of the antibiotics used in swine medicine," declares Liz Wagstrom, DVM. "We firmly believe those labels will be gone so get ready."
For full story »
Identifying putative candidate genes and pathways involved in immune responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection
Differences in gene expression were compared between RNAs from lungs of high (HR) and low (LR) porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) burden pigs using the swine protein-annotated long oligonucleotide microarray, the Pigoligoarray. Pathway analyses were carried out to determine biological processes, pathways and networks that differ between the LR and HR responses. Differences existed between HR and LR pigs for 16 signalling pathways [P < 0.01/-log (P-value) >1.96].
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Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Management of PRRS Continues to Improve
A professor of veterinary medicine with the University of Minnesota says, despite continuing problems with the spread of PRRS, the North American pork industry is a lot better at managing the infection today. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, or PRRS, is a viral infection that causes reproductive failure in the sow herd as well as poor performance in growing pigs and is considered the most costly infection we have in the North American pork industry today.
For full story »
Characterization of a mobile and multiple resistance plasmid isolated from swine manure, and its detection in soil after manure application
Aims: To isolate and characterize multiple antibiotic resistance plasmids found in swine manure and test for plasmid associated genetic markers in soil following manure application to an agricultural field.
Methods and Results: Plasmids were isolated from an erythromycin enrichment culture that used liquid swine manure as an inoculant.
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Pig producers' perceptions of the Influenza Pandemic H1N1/09 outbreak and its effect on their biosecurity practices in Australia
The Influenza Pandemic (H1N1/09) virus was first reported in humans in Mexico in April 2009 and a pandemic level was declared on 11th of June 2009 by the World Health Organization (Chan, 2009; WHO, 2009a). Public misconceptions about the transmission of H1N1/09 were caused by the inadequate naming of the disease as 'swine influenza'. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the height of the outbreak in the Australian human population and before the virus was reported in the first piggery in Australia in July 2009 (OIE, 2009b; Holyoake et al., 2011).
For full story »
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
National Biosecurity Training Program Attracts International Interest
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports the success of its National Biosecurity Training Program is attracting international interest. The National Biosecurity Training Program, developed by the Canadian Swine Health Board and delivered by the provincial pork organizations, was discussed last week as part of the International Pig Veterinary Society Congress in Jeju, South Korea. The training covers the ways disease can infect swine herds and the practices that will minimize the risk of transmission. Canadian Swine Health Board chair Florian Possberg says interest among Canadian producers has exceeded expectations.
For full story »
African Swine Fever outbreaks continue near Moscow
The African Swine Fever (ASF) virus has been recently detected by specialists from Rosselkhoznadzor, in pathology samples taken from a boar found mid-June in the Lihoslavlsky area of the Tver region. At present, specialists of the State Veterinary Service and the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance Office (Rosselkhoznadzor) for the Tver and Pskov regions are carrying out numerous activities designed to prevent the spread of ASF with the aim of ultimately eliminating it. At the moment the specialists are trying to identify the possible infections pathways in the Lihoslavlsky area, where previously the virus was not detected.
For full story »
Porcine eperythrozoonosis: from Eperythrozoon suis to Mycoplasma suis
Mycoplasma suis (formerly known as Eperythrozoon suis ) is the most prevalent agent causing haemolytic anaemia in swine. The disease is also known as porcine eperythrozoonosis. M.suis is a small, pleomorphic bacteria parasitizing porcine erythrocytes. To date, no in vitro cultivation system for M.suis has been established and, therefore, our knowledge about the characteristics of M.suis and the pathogenesis of porcine eperythrozoonosis is rather limited.
For full story »
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Heightened Biosecurity Recommended to Minimize Risk of Brachyspira Infection
A researcher with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine recommends heightened biosecurity to minimize the risk of Brachyspira infection. Brachyspira, the bacteria that causes swine dysentery, has been identified in the U.S. midwest and in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Symptoms include diarrhea, sometimes bloody diarrhea and chronic weight loss in pigs. Dr. John Harding, an associate professor with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, explains this is a fecal-oral transmitted disease which means herds become infected through manure which has arrived on the farm.
For full story »
A Serosurvey for Brucella suis, Classical Swine Fever Virus, Porcine Circovirus Type 2, and Pseudorabies Virus in Feral Swine (Susscrofa) of Eastern North Carolina
As feral swine (Sus scrofa) populations expand their range and the opportunity for feral swine hunting increases, there is increased potential for disease transmission that may impact humans, domestic swine, and wildlife. From September 2007 to March 2010, in 13 North Carolina, USA, counties and at Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center, we conducted a serosurvey of feral swine for Brucella suis, pseudorabies virus (PRV), and classical swine fever virus (CSFV); the samples obtained at Howell Woods also were tested for porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2).
For full story »
Effect of age and maternally-derived antibody status on humoral and cellular immune responses to vaccination of pigs against Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
The effects of age and maternally-derived antibodies (MDA) on the immune response to Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae were investigated in piglets orally vaccinated with a live E. rhusiopathiae vaccine at 6, 8 or 10 weeks of age. Seroconversion, determined by ELISA, was evident in MDA positive piglets vaccinated at 8 or 10 weeks of age and in all MDA negative vaccinates. Two weeks after vaccination in the presence of MDA, a T cell response, measured by a lymphocyte proliferation assay, was observed in 25% of piglets vaccinated at 6 weeks of age and in 100% of piglets vaccinated at 8 or 10 weeks of age.
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Friday, June 22, 2012
Effects of zearalenone and its derivatives on porcine immune response
Zearalenone (ZEN), a mycotoxin produced by several Fusarium spp., is most commonly found as a contaminant in stored grain and has chronic estrogenic effects on mammals. In this in vitro study, we compared the effects of zearalenone (ZEN) and some of its derivatives: a-zearalenol (a-ZOL), ß-zearalenol (ß-ZOL), and zearalanone (ZAN) on several peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) parameters: cytotoxicity, proliferation, as well as antibody and cytokine synthesis.
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Protective effect of the maternally derived porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)-specific cellular immune response in piglets by dam vaccination against PCV2 challenge
The objective of the present study was to evaluate (i) the passive transfer of maternally derived functional porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)-specific lymphocytes of seronegative sows immunized with the PCV2 vaccine to newborn piglets and (ii) the functional role of the maternally derived PCV2-specific cellular immune response in protecting newborn piglets from challenge with PCV2.
http://vir.sgmjournals.org/content/early/2012/04/05/vir.0.041749-0.short-rss=1
Biosecurity aspects and pathogen inactivation in acidified high risk animal by-products
The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of formic acid addition to ground high risk animal by-products (ABP 1) in terms of stabilization and pathogen inactivation and to evaluate the biosecurity risk connected with the ABP 1 based combustion fuel Biomal. Laboratory studies were performed on the persistence of Salmonella Typhimurium, Bacillus cereus spores, porcine herpes virus, avian influenza virus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, equine rhinitis A virus and porcine parvovirus in Biomal at different storage times.
For full story »
Monday, June 25, 2012
Saskatchewan Companion Program to National Farm-Level Biosecurity Training Program Announced
The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have announced a new provincial companion program to support Saskatchewan pork producers enrolled in the National Biosecurity Training Program. The Canadian Swine Health Board's National Farm-Level Biosecurity Training Program offers Canadian pork producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves the tools and techniques that will reduce the risk of disease entering their farms and provides funding for an on farm veterinary visit to review biosecurity practices.
For full story »
Researchers pinpoint what makes salmonella virulent
Yale researchers are reporting in the June 14 issue of the journal Nature that they have discovered the moment when salmonella becomes virulent. Eduardo Groisman and Eun-Jin Lee report that changes in the level of acidity in the environment around the pathogen may enable salmonella to survive in its host by triggering one of its virulence genes.
For full story »
Traditional 'air-dried' fermented sausages from Central Germany
Traditional varieties of fermented pork sausages from Central Germany are different from related meat products in various aspects. First, they are prepared from "warm" pork immediately after slaughter. The meat is then minced, mixed with spices and minimal amounts of sugars, salt and nitrate, and the stuffed sausages ripen for a minimum of 6-8 weeks at temperatures below 15 °C. Second, surface mould growth during ripening is regularly removed or suppressed. The manufacturing methods require a minimum of investments and labour and reflect the socio-economic situation in the manufacturing area. The sausages have a good record of safety, and a preliminary risk assessment indicates that pathogens are kept under sufficient control by the extended ripening at low temperatures.
For full story »
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
New Program to Assist in Biosecurity Improvements on Saskatchewan Swine Farms
A program announced last week will help pork producers in Saskatchewan improve biosecurity on their farms. The National Biosecurity Training Program, developed by the Canadian Swine Health Board, provides pork producers training to familiarize them with the tools and techniques that will reduce the risk of disease entering their farms and provides an on farm veterinary visit to review biosecurity practices.
For full story »
Swine Producers Who Encounter Symptoms of Swine Dysentery Encouraged to Submit Samples for Diagnosis
A researcher with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine is encouraging swine producers who encounter symptoms of swine dysentery to submit samples for diagnosis. Brachyspira, the bacteria that causes swine dysentery, is transmitted through manure via several different vectors. Dr. John Harding, an associate professor with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, says swine dysentery had been thought to have been eradicated but it has once again surfaced.
For full story »
A genome-wide scan for quantitative trait loci affecting respiratory disease and immune capacity in Landrace pigs
Respiratory disease is the most important health concern for the swine industry. Genetic improvement for disease resistance is challenging because of the difficulty in obtaining good phenotypes related with disease resistance; however, identification of genes or markers associated with disease resistance can help in the genetic improvement of pig health.
For full story »
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Netherlands reports declining antibiotics use in livestock farming
The policy objective in the Netherlands of a 20% reduction in the use of antibiotics in the years 2009-11 has been achieved, according to new data relating to the veterinary use of antibiotics published by LEI Wageningen UR. According to the announcement, in the pig and broiler sectors, the use of antibiotics has declined considerably. On the basis of the random sample, the decrease in use within the veal calf sector in 2009-11 was a little under 20%, but a decrease had already been achieved in this area before 2009. In the dairy farming sector, the use of antibiotics has remained fairly stable and at a relatively low level.
For full story »
Russia releases report on ongoing ASF outbreaks
Rosselkhoznadzor reports a new outbreak of ASF has been registered in the Volgograd region of Southern Russia, near the border with Kazakhstan. "On June 19 a new case of ASF was diagnosed in the village of Dolgi Pokrovsky in the Leninsky district of Volgograd region. Three dead animals were found on two private farms. In the first threatened with ASF zone (20 km) a total of 158 pigs will be culled. The farmers will receive the compensation of 1 mln rubles (US$ 33,000)" the report says.
For full story »
Prevalence of and risk factors associated with viral and bacterial pathogens in farmed European wild boar
The aim of this study was to estimate in farmed European wild boars the prevalence of and risk factors associated with a range of common porcine viral and bacterial infections, namely, porcine parvovirus (PPV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), swine influenza virus (SIV), Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV), classical swine fever virus (CSFV), swine vesicular disease virus (SVDV), coronavirus causing transmissible gastroenteritis (TGEV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Lawsonia intracellularis, Brucella spp., and Leptospira spp.
For full story »
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Management of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Continues to Improve
A professor of veterinary medicine with the University of Minnesota says despite ongoing problems with the spread of PRRS, the North American pork industry is a lot better at managing the infection. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, or PRRS, causes reproductive failure in the sow herd as well as poor performance in growing pigs. Dr. Bob Morrison, a professor of veterinary medicine with the University of Minnesota, says there are good strategies available for addressing PRRS but those strategies will vary depending on the density of infection.
For full story »
Methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci on pig farms as a reservoir of heterogeneous staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec elements
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) likely originated by acquisition of the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) from coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS). However, it is unknown whether the same SCCmec types are present in MRSA and CNS that reside in the same niche. Here we describe a study to determine the presence of a potential mecA reservoir among CNS recovered from 10 pig farms. The 44 strains belonged to 10 different Staphylococcus species.
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Antimicrobial Resistance, Toxinotype and Genotypic Profiling of Clostridium difficile of swine origin
The occurrence of Clostridium difficile infections in patients that do not fulfill the classical risk factors prompts for the investigations of new risk factors of disease. The goal of this study was to characterize strains and associated antimicrobial resistance determinants of C. difficile isolated from swine raised in Ohio and North Carolina. Genotypic approaches used include PCR detection, Toxinotyping, DNA sequencing and PFGE DNA fingerprinting.
For full story »
Friday, June 29, 2012
FAO and OIE unveil Global Strategy for control of foot-and-mouth disease
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) are joining forces to combat foot-and-mouth disease on a global scale, laying out a detailed strategy today to bring the devastating livestock disease under control. The two organizations underlined, however, that only solid commitment from global partners will make the strategy possible, as they opened an international meeting in Bangkok supported by the Thai Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
For full story »
Research: Belgian survey on brucellosis in wild boar
Belgian researchers have published a survey on brucellosis in wild boar populations in Belgium, concluding that brucellosis is widespread and increasing. Wild boar could pose a threat to domestic swine.
For full story »
Colonization kinetics of different methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus sequence types in pigs and host susceptibilities
In this study we investigated the kinetics of colonization, the host susceptibility and transmissibility of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) after nasal treatment of pigs with three different MRSA strains of distinctive clonal lineages (sequence type 398 [ST398], ST8, and ST9), and origin in weaning piglets.
For full story »
Monday, July 2, 2012
Vietnam's swine industry suffers disease and price shocks
With the steady drop in pork prices, farmers have ignored having their pigs vaccinated against blue ear disease. The situation may result in an outbreak in the southern region, said Hoang Van Nam, head of the Animal Health Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. He said the disease this year has been erratic in occurrence and was first detected in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai on January 11 and has since spread to 123 communes in 13 provinces nationwide, ravaging 34,000 pigs and 21,700 of which had to be destroyed.
For full story »
FAO and OIE unveil global strategy for control of foot-and-mouth disease
FAO and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) are joining forces to combat foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) on a global scale, laying out a detailed strategy today to bring the devastating livestock disease under control. The two organizations underlined, however, that only solid commitments from global partners will make the strategy possible, as they opened an international meeting in Bangkok supported by the Thai Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
For full story »
Worm Burden-Dependent Disruption of the Porcine Colon Microbiota by Trichuris suis Infection
Helminth infection in pigs serves as an excellent model for the study of the interaction between human malnutrition and parasitic infection and could have important implications in human health. We had observed that pigs infected with Trichuris suis for 21 days showed significant changes in the proximal colon microbiota. In this study, interactions between worm burden and severity of disruptions to the microbial composition and metabolic potentials in the porcine proximal colon microbiota were investigated using metagenomic tools.
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Tuesday, July 3, 2012
FMD-outbreak scenario presented at Expo
Thinking about the consequences of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in the United States is not pleasant, says Dermot Hayes. But, the Iowa State University ag economist says it is something that has to be considered as other nations deal with the disease. Hayes worked with several other economists in a study sponsored by the National Pork Board. The results were released at the recent World Pork Expo.
For full story »
Natural compounds may be alternative to antibiotics in young animals
Natural compounds may offer an alternative to certain antibiotics in the future for treating young animals that are susceptible to bacterial infections, thanks to work by U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) scientists. Researchers at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Food and Feed Safety Research Unit in College Station, Texas, have invented a new method that involves using chlorate (sodium or salt) and nitro compounds to significantly reduce or eliminate intestinal bacterial pathogens in animals such as piglets and calves. Nitro compounds are organic substances that contain one or more nitro groups, which consist of three atoms—one of nitrogen and two of oxygen—that act as one.
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Lack of effect of feeding citrus by-products in reducing salmonella in experimentally infected weanling pigs
The objective of the current research was to determine if feeding the citrus by-products (D) -limonene (DL) and citrus molasses would reduce the concentration and prevalence of Salmonella in weanling pigs experimentally infected with Salmonella Typhimurium.
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Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Decline in antibiotic use in Dutch livestock
Antibiotic use in the Dutch agriculture sector has declined sharply in recent years, exceeding the objectives set by the government. Sales have shown a drop of 32% from 2009 to 2011. The total sales of antibiotics in the Netherlands dropped nearly 32%, from 495 tonnes to 338 tonnes during the period 2009-2011, according to new data relating to the veterinary use of antibiotics published by LEI Wageningen UR.
For full story »
Toxoplasma gondii in commercially available pork meat and cured ham: a contribution to risk assessment for consumers
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii, whose transmission has usually been attributed to ingestion of undercooked or raw meat. Dry-cured ham is a high-quality meat product of increasing economic relevance, and epidemiological studies point to cured meat products as a risk factor for acquiring toxoplasmosis.
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Different immune response of pigs to Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium and Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis infection
Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium (MAA) and Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis (MAH) are the most common mycobacterial species isolated from granulomatous lesions in swine in countries with controlled bovine tuberculosis. This study is focused on the immunological aspect of MAA and MAH infection in pigs.
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Thursday, July 5, 2012
Networks Play a Role in PRRS Spread
A researcher with the University of Guelph reports the networks that connect pigs, especially ownership and trucking networks, are emerging as key factors in the spread of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome. With funding provided by the Canadian Swine Health Board, researchers with the University of Guelph are using advanced techniques, including developing computer models, to identify key factors that play a role in the spread of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome. Dr. Zvonimir Poljiak, a swine epidemiologist in the Department of Population Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, says the goal is to determine the contribution of such factors as spatial location, trucking, animal sources, feed sources and semen sources to the transmission of the PRRS virus at a herd level.
For full story »
Russia reports two new outbreaks of African Swine Fever
African Swine Fever (ASF) continues to spread across Russia. Over the last week two major outbreaks were registered in the Volgograd region. On June 25, at a private farm in the village Kolkhoznaya Akhtuba, two pigs died and 16 more were found sick. The preliminary diagnosis of African Swine Fever (ASF) was confirmed by the Russian Research Institute of Veterinary Virology and Microbiology, it was reported. In an area with a radius of 20 km about 1,300 head of pigs will have to be culled preventively.
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Mucin biopolymers as broad-spectrum antiviral agents
Mucus is a porous biopolymer matrix that coats all wet epithelia in the human body and serves as the first line of defense against many pathogenic bacteria and viruses. However, under certain conditions viruses are able to penetrate this infection barrier, which compromises the protective function of native mucus.
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Friday, July 6, 2012
Swine leg with hoof intercepted at Philadelphia International Airport
Customs and Border Protection agents would like you to know that the 12-pound swine leg in your luggage is going to raise red flags. As it did recently at Philadelphia International Airport, where a passenger from Spain tried to bring in a swing leg, bone and hoof and all.
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National monitoring of Ascaris suum related liver pathologies in English abattoirs: a time-series analysis, 2005-2010
Ascaris suum is the most important internal parasite in farmed pigs world-wide. In England, the BPEX Pig Health Scheme (BPHS) monitors the prevalence of ascariosis in slaughtered finished pigs by identifying milk spots - the healing lesions caused by A. suum larvae migration through the liver. This study investigates the trend of milk spot lesions from July 2005 to December 2010 to identify the progress made by the industry in controlling this parasitic disease.
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Cross-species infection of pigs with a novel rabbit, but not rat, strain of hepatitis E virus isolated in the United States
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important human pathogen. In addition to humans, HEV has also been identified in pig, chicken, mongoose, deer, rat, rabbit and fish. There are four recognized and two putative genotypes of mammalian HEV. Genotypes 1 and 2 are restricted to humans, while genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic. The recently identified rabbit HEV is a distant member of genotype 3.
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Monday, July 9, 2012
Codex adopts ractopamine standards
Member countries of the Codex Alimentarius Commission voted today
69-67 in favor of adopting standards for maximum residue levels for ractopamine hydrochloride (ractopamine) in pigs and cattle during its 35th session in Rome. Although ractopamine is recognized by the FDA as a safe feed additive, the lack of international MRL standards have caused confusion. It was the fifth time the U.N. body considered setting a maximum residue limit for ractopamine.
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Researchers Examine Novel Strain of Brachyspira
Research being conducted by the University of Saskatchewan is helping pork producers identify and control a new species of Brachyspira. Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the organism that causes swine dysentery, had been thought to have been eradicated thirty years ago. Researchers with the University of Saskatchewan in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board are working to characterize and control an infection that appeared in late 2009, causing similar symptoms.
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Food Safety: At the Center of a One Health Approach for Combating Zoonoses
Food Safety is at the center of One Health. Many, if not most, of all important zoonoses relate in some way to animals in the food production chain. Therefore, the food becomes an important vehicle for many, but not all, of these zoonotic pathogens. One of the major issues in food safety over the latest decennia has been the lack of cross-sectoral collaboration across the food production chain. Major food safety events have been significantly affected by the lack of collaboration between the animal health, the food control, and the human health sector.
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Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Social Networks Contribute to PRRS Spread Among Swine
Research conducted by the University of Guelph indicates the networks that connect pigs, particularly ownership and trucking networks, play a major role in the spread of PRRS.
For full story »
Diseases from animals kill millions of people: study
Diseases transmitted from livestock to people who raise them account for more than 2 million human deaths a year worldwide, and growing demand for meat products could increase the danger, a new global study found.
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Tick-borne viruses in Europe
The aim of this review is to present briefly background information on 27 tick-borne viruses that have been detected in
Europe. Emphasis is laid on the taxonomic status of these viruses, range of their ixodid or argasid vectors and vertebrate hosts, pathogenicity for vertebrates including humans, and relevance to public health.
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Wednesday, July 11, 2012
New Study Maps Hotspots of Human-Animal Infectious Diseases and Emerging Disease Outbreaks
Maps Reveal Animal-borne Disease as Heavy Burden for One Billion of World’s Poor and Emerging Disease Hotspots in US and Western Europe. A new global study mapping human-animal diseases like tuberculosis (TB) and Rift Valley fever finds that an “unlucky” 13 zoonoses are responsible for 2.4 billion cases of human illness and 2.2 million deaths per year. The vast majority occur in low- and middle-income countries.
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RESEARCH: Chinese isolate Newcastle disease virus from swine
Chinese scientists have isolated the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) from swine. The virus is normally considered to only infect avian species. The strain was obtained from one area where swine and poultry mixed for breeding. According to the research paper, the strain was isolated in 2010, in Henan province of China. The strain, called Xiny10, was isolated from one sick swine whose clinical signs were characterised by progressive weight loss, fever and diarrhoea, in a group of post-weaned pigs of about nine weeks of age.
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Detection of disease resistance and susceptibility alleles in pigs using oligonucleotide microarray hybridization
A multiplex DNA microarray chip aimed at the identification of allelic polymorphisms was developed for simultaneous detection of swine disease resistance genes underlying malignant hyperthermia (RYR), postweaning diarrhea, edema disease (FUT1), neonatal diarrhea (MUC4), and influenza (MX1). The on-chip detection was performed with fragmented polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified products.
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Thursday, July 12, 2012
New Diagnostic Tools Helping Characterize New Strain of Brachyspira
New diagnostic tools developed by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan are helping the pork industry address a new strain of Brachyspira. Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the organism that causes swine dysentery, had been thought to have been eradicated thirty years ago. Researchers with the University of Saskatchewan in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board are working to characterize and control an infection that appeared in late 2009, causing similar symptoms. Dr. Joe Rubin, a doctor of veterinary medicine with the University of Saskatchewan, says the most important accomplishment so far is the development of new tools to diagnose the new strain.
For full story »
RESEARCH: Characteristics of S. suis isolates in China
Clinical Streptococcus suis isolates from diseased pigs in China are genetically diverse, resistant to multiple antibiotics of clinical importance, and carry known virulence factors. This was the result of research carried out by scientists from the South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou, China. The isolates were examined for susceptibility to nine antimicrobials, possession of virulence-associated factors (VFs), and distribution of serotypes. The association between antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and serotypes as well as VFs was subsequently assessed.
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Zinc Oxide-Montmorillonite Hybrid Influences Diarrhea, Intestinal Mucosal Integrity, and Digestive Enzyme Activity in Weaned Pigs
One hundred-eighty piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire), with an average initial weight of 7.4 kg weaned at 27 ± 1 days of age, were used to evaluate the effects of dietary zinc oxide-montmorillonite hybrid (ZnO-MMT) on growth performance, diarrhea, intestinal mucosal integrity, and digestive enzyme activity.
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Friday, July 13, 2012
Iowa State scientist positive about PRRS elimination
According to Iowa State University researcher Derald Holtkamp, there are reasons to be optimistic about the progress being made in the ongoing battle against PRRS, Pork Network reports. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is still costing the US pork industry about US$1.8 million per day, said Derald Holtkamp, DVM, assistant professor Veterinary Diagnostic & Production Animal Medicine at Iowa State University.
For full story »
Dr. Julie Menard Honored With Leman Award
Dr. Julie Menard will be honored with the Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and Pfizer Animal Health. Established by the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and Pfizer Animal Health in 1994, the award honors individuals whose achievements contribute significantly to the body of knowledge related to swine health and management. Dr. Menard graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Montreal in 1987 and has served as a swine practitioner consultant for a swine-integrated company (F. Menard, Inc.) located in Quebec ever since.
For full story »
Worldwide occurrence and impact of human trichinellosis, 1986-2009
To assess the global incidence and clinical effects of human trichinellosis, we analyzed outbreak report data for 1986-2009.
Searches of 6 international databases yielded 494 reports. After applying strict criteria for relevance and reliability, we selected
261 reports for data extraction. From 1986 through 2009, there were 65,818 cases and 42 deaths reported from 41 countries. The World Health Organization European Region accounted for 87% of cases; 50% of those occurred in Romania, mainly during 1990-1999. Incidence in the region ranged from 1.1 to 8.5 cases per 100,000 population.
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Monday, July 16, 2012
National Biosecurity Training Program Participation Reaches 97 Percent in Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board reports 97 percent of swine producers in Saskatchewan have now participated in the Canadian Swine Health Board's National Biosecurity Training Program. The National Biosecurity Training Program was developed to provide Canadian pork producers the training that will help them improve biosecurity on their farms. Saskatchewan Pork Development Board producer services manager Harvey Wagner says producer response in Saskatchewan has been exceptional.
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Pilot project targets PRRS-free hog certification
At an estimated cost of $130 million annually, Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome (PRRS) is nothing to sneeze at. Now, the Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project, started in early
2011 and running through 2012, is looking at ways to minimize the risks that hog producers face with the disease. The Project is seeking 100 hog farms in western Canada to participate in the voluntary program, and $2500 per farm is available to assist producers in completing testing required for certification.
For full story »
Global transmission of influenza viruses from humans to swine
To determine the extent to which influenza viruses jump between humans and swine hosts, we undertook a large-scale phylogenetic analysis of pandemic A/H1N1/09 (H1N1pdm09) influenza virus genome sequence data. From this we identified at least 49 human-to-swine transmission events that occurred globally during 2009-2011, highlighting the ability of the H1N1pdm09 virus to repeatedly transmit from humans to swine, even following adaptive evolution in humans.
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Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Government of Canada Seeking Comments on Proposed Pig Traceability Regulations
The Government of Canada is further strengthening Canada's livestock sector by proposing new regulations that would make traceability mandatory for pigs. An enhanced traceability system for swine would help protect the health of Canadians and the national herd, and could contribute to the reopening of export markets in the event of an animal disease outbreak.
For full story »
New Feral Hog Website Provides National Expertise, Resources
The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation has joined several land-grant university extension entities throughout the United States to form a “community of practice” that will fight the growing feral hog problem. This Feral Hog Community of Practice brings together a group of professional educators with expertise on a variety of feral hog related topics. Together, they have launched a new Web-based resource on http://www.eXtension.org to help provide agricultural producers, wildlife managers and landowners with critical information and expert application of knowledge to meet the growing demand for timely and accurate information.
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Bacterial contamination of tile drainage water and shallow groundwater under different application methods of liquid swine manure
A 2 year field experiment evaluated liquid manure application methods on the movement of manure-borne pathogens ( Salmonella sp.) and indicator bacteria ( Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens ) to subsurface water. A combination of application methods including surface application, pre-application tillage, and post-application incorporation were applied in a randomized complete block design on an instrumented field site in spring 2007 and 2008. Tile and shallow groundwater were sampled immediately after manure application and after rainfall events.
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Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Swine Traceability System Reaches Important Milestone
The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) welcomes the amendment to Canada’s Health of Animals Regulations, which details the proposed requirements for swine traceability. This amendment is an important milestone in the establishment of a national swine traceability system. Part I publication allows for comments on the proposed amendment to be made before they’re eventually published in Part II of the Canada Gazette, making it law. The CPC encourages its members and industry partners to participate in the public comment period which will end on 13 August 2012.
For full story »
Tver and Volgograd regions report six new outbreaks of ASF
New outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) have been reported in Tver and Volgograd regions, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance Rosselkhoznadzor reports. Five of the ASF outbreaks were reported in the Tver region, north west of Moscow. Theese were reported as from Thursday, June 12. An official Rosselkhoznadzor report read: "The new outbreaks of ASF were registered in a peasant farm in the village Maikova of Kimry district; in one of the private farms in the village Knyazhiha of Bezhetsk district; in a peasant farm in the village Priseki of the same area and in hunting area near the village of Vedenskoe of Bezhetsk district; as well as in the forest near the same village.".
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Lineage and virulence of Streptococcus suis serotype 2 isolates from North America
We performed multilocus sequence typing of 64 North American Streptococcus suis serotype 2 porcine isolates. Strains were sequence type (ST) 28 (51%), ST25 (44%), and ST1 (5%). We identified nonrandom associations between STs and expression of the virulence markers suilysin (SLY), muramidase-relased protein (MRP), and extracellular factor (EF).
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Thursday, July 19, 2012
RESEARCH: Porcine ear necrosis is multifactorial in origin
Recent research suggests that Porcine Ear Necrosis Syndrome is multifactorial in origin and that although infectious agents can be involved in the development of the syndrome they are not the exclusive triggering factor. The study to Porcine Ear Necrosis Syndrome (PENS) was carried out by Austrian, Swiss and German researchers.
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Heavy metals in liquid pig manure in light of bacterial antimicrobial resistance
Heavy metals are regularly found in liquid pig manure, and might interact with bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Concentrations of heavy metals were determined by atomic spectroscopic methods in 305 pig manure samples and were connected to the phenotypic resistance of Escherichia coli (n=613) against 29 antimicrobial drugs.
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Immunoproteomic analyses of outer membrane antigens of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae grown under iron-restricted conditions
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, a bacterial pathogen of swine and agent of porcine pneumonia, causes a highly infectious disease of economic importance in the pig industry. Commercial vaccines for A. pleuropneumoniae include whole-cell bacterins and second generation subunit vaccines but they only confer partial protective immunity.
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Friday, July 20, 2012
Swine Traceability Expected to Benefit Entire Pork Value Chain
The Canadian Pork Council's Traceability Committee Chair says the entire Canadian pork value chain will benefit from the introduction of swine traceability. Under proposed changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations to accommodate traceability custodians of pigs will be required to identify all farmed pigs and farmed wild boars and to record and report all movements of pigs from birth or import, to slaughter or export. Curtiss Littlejohn, the Chair of the Canadian Pork Council's Traceability Committee, says swine traceability will benefit the entire Canadian pork value chain.
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Temporal candidate gene expression in the sow placenta and embryo during early gestation and effect of maternal Progenos supplementation on embryonic and placental development
The present study characterised gene expression associated with embryonic muscle development and placental vascularisation during early gestation in the pig and examined effects of Progenos supplementation in early pregnancy. Tissues were collected from commercial multiparous sows (n=48) from Days 16 to 49 of gestation.
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Prevalence of antibiotic-resistant enterobacteriaceae isolated from chicken and pork meat purchased at the slaughterhouse and at retail in Bavaria, Germany
The purpose of this study was to investigate chicken and pork meat sampled at the slaughterhouse and at retail for differences in the presence of antibiotic resistant Gram-negative bacteria. For this aim, Escherichia coli (n=677), Enterobacter spp. (n=167), Citrobacter spp. (n=83), Serratia spp. (n=116), Klebsiella spp. (n=125), and Salmonella spp. (n=89) were isolated from 500 chicken and 500 pork samples purchased at the slaughterhouse and at retail (in the same amounts) in Germany.
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Monday, July 23, 2012
FAO in Colombia: Working to eradicate flu in swine by 2020
Representatives from 19 North and Latin American countries are meeting this week with the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO) in Pereira, Colombia, ElComercio.com reports. They will seek to strengthen a plan, once created in 2000, to eradicate swine flu in the region by 2020, FAO said in a statement. Swine flu is a contagious and fatal disease among pigs that has caused million-dollar losses in the industry, according to the news site.
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Effect of isosporiasis prevention with toltrazuril on long-term pig performance
The efficacy of toltrazuril treatment was assessed in two experiments in Polish swine herds. Experiment 1 included a toltrazuril treatment group, Group A (n = 410), and untreated control, Group B (n = 386). Time to sale in Group A was 108 days versus 120 days for Group B, with average body weights at sale of 114.2-kg and 108.8-kg, respectively (P < 0.05).
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Absence of livestock-associated methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus clonal complex CC398 as a nasal colonizer of pigs raised in an alternative system
Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) ST398 isolated from pigs raised in conventional farms was previously reported. Here we report a study on 25 farms adhering to an alternative system. LA-MRSA ST398 was not detected in nasal swabs from 178 pigs or from 89 humans working and living on these farms.
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Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Webinars Planned to Explain Proposed Changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations
The Canadian Pork Council is inviting pork industry stakeholders to participate in a series of webinars planned to explain proposed changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations. Amendments proposed to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations to accommodate swine traceability were announced July 14th and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is accepting comments from the public until August 13th. A series of webinars set for this week will explain the proposed amendments and the process for making comments. Jeff Clark, the manager of PigTrace Canada, says under the proposed regulations producers will be required to identify all pigs and, for the first time, record and report all movements of pigs.
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Detection of porcine circovirus genotypes 2a and 2b in aborted foetuses from infected swine herds in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil
The findings indicate that the frequency of PCV2 infections in aborted porcine foetuses from the State of Sao Paulo is rather low (10.7%) and that co-infection with other pathogens is common and may be involved in PCV2 associated reproductive failure. No repeatable, characteristic amino acid motifs for regions of the PCV2 capsid protein seemed to be associated with abortion in sows.
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Identification of Reassortant Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus in Korean Pigs
Since the 2009 pandemic human H1N1 influenza A virus emerged in April 2009, novel reassortant strains have been identified throughout the world. This paper describes the detection and isolation of reassortant strains associated with human pandemic influenza H1N1 and swine influenza H1N2 (SIV) viruses in swine populations in South Korea.
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Wednesday, July 25, 2012
2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY FOR SWINE HEALTH IN CANADA
The Canadian Swine Health Board is pleased to announce that early bird registration is now open for the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum, being held Wednesday, October 17th and Thursday, October 19th, 2012. This year, the Conference Planning Committee has put together a program that showcases the latest developments in swine health, with a focus on using science and technology to further enhance swine health in Canada and abroad. Speakers will present updates on biosecurity programming, what is currently happening in swine health research, as well as swine health intelligence and emergency preparedness for animal disease events.
The program will be of interest to all stakeholders in the Canadian swine industry, and we look forward to seeing you in Winnipeg!
For more information »
Animal health expert slams media over antibiotic report
In the wake of a national poll conducted by Consumer Reports that found that a majority of Americans want their supermarkets to sell antibiotic-free meat, associations representing poultry, meat and related animal agricultural groups have decried the findings and defended the industry’s use of antibiotics. Consumers Union, the public policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, has been using the report - "Meat On Drugs: The Overuse of Antibiotics in Food Animals and What Supermarkets and Consumers Can Do to Stop It" - to support a new advocacy campaign urging supermarkets to sell only meat raised without antibiotics.
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Diagnostics and Surveillance for Swine Influenza
Collective knowledge regarding the occurrence of influenza among swine is incomplete due to inconsistent surveillance of swine populations. In this chapter, we review what surveillance activities exist and some of the practical challenges encountered. Furthermore, to support robust surveillance activities, accurate laboratory assays are needed for the detection of the virus and viral nucleic acids within clinical samples, or for antiviral antibodies in serum samples. The most common influenza diagnostic assays used for swine are explained and their use as surveillance tools evaluated.
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Thursday, July 26, 2012
Swine Traceability Offers New Tools to Eliminate Swine Disease
The Chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board says in the event of a disease outbreak swine traceability will provide the information necessary to mitigate the spread of the disease and go about eliminating it. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is accepting public comments until August 13th on proposed changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations to accommodate swine traceability. Under the proposed regulations producers will be required to identify all pigs and, for the first time, all movements of pigs will have to be reported. Canadian Swine Health Board Chair Florian Possberg says there are several disease concerns but the biggest is foot and mouth disease.
For more information »
First countrywide survey of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli from broilers, swine, and cattle in Switzerland
The herd prevalence of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli (3GC-R-Ec) was determined for broilers (25.0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 17.6-33.7%]), pigs (3.3% [(95% CI 0.4-11.5%]), and cattle (3.9% [95% CI 0.5-13.5%]), using a sampling strategy that was representative of the livestock population slaughtered in Switzerland between October 2010 and April 2011.
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High occurrence of various Clostridium difficile PCR ribotypes in pigs arriving at the slaughterhouse
The objective was to elaborate the risk of food-borne transmission of C. difficile via pigs.
The occurrence of C. difficile was assessed in pigs arriving at a slaughterhouse in the Netherlands. Rectal faecal samples from 50 pigs originating from 10 different farms were taken just after the pigs were stunned and bled. These samples were examined using a real-time PCR (BD GeneOhmô Cdiff Assay) combined with culturing following enrichment. Using real-time PCR, none of the faecal samples were found positive for C. difficile while after culturing following enrichment, 14 out of
50 samples (28%) contained C. difficile. The positive samples were derived from nine different farms and encompassed seven different PCR ribotypes (015 predominant). All isolated C. difficile strains were positive for the toxin A and B genes.
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Friday, July 27, 2012
Social Media Allows Swine Veterinarians to Share Information on Disease Threats
The establishment of a new national communications network for swine veterinarians is expected to speed up the response to health threats within the Canadian swine industry. To address gaps identified in the national surveillance needs within the Canadian swine industry the Canadian Swine Health Board initiated the development of the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network. Project Manager Dr. Chris Byra, with Greenbelt Swine Veterinary Services, one of a group of companies involved in the initiative, explains the network uses social media to allow swine veterinarians across the country to communicate regularly and share information on new disease threats.
For more information »
A Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Mutant with 234 Amino Acids in Capsid Protein Showed More Virulence In Vivo, Compared with Classical PCV2a/b Strain
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is considered to be the primary causative agent of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), which has become a serious economic problem for the swine industry worldwide. The major genotypes, PCV2a and PCV2b, are highly prevalent in the pig population and are present worldwide. However, another newly emerging PCV2b genotype mutant, which has a mutation in its ORF2-encoded capsid protein, has been sporadically present in China, as well as in other countries.
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Saliva proteomics as an emerging, non-invasive tool to study livestock physiology, nutrition and diseases
Saliva is an extraordinary fluid in terms of research and diagnostic possibilities. Its composition in electrolytes, hormones and especially its proteome contains information about feeding status, nutritional requirements and adaptations to diet and environment, and also about health status of animals. It is easy to collect on a non-invasive and routine basis without any need for special training.
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Monday, July 30, 2012
Outbreak of Influenza A (H3N2) Virus Among Persons and Swine at a County Fair - Indiana, July 2012
During July 12-16, 2012, the Indiana State Department of Health and the Indiana Board of Animal Health identified respiratory illness among swine and persons at a county fair held July 8-14. On July 16, specimens were collected from four persons with respiratory illness; two had become ill on July 12 and sought care at an emergency department, and two were identified as part of the subsequent public health investigation. All four persons were swine exhibitors or family members of swine exhibitors and had close contact with swine. On July 18, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing at the Indiana State Department of Health laboratory identified suspected influenza A (H3N2) variant (H3N2v) virus* in all four specimens.
For more information »
Analysis of factors to predict piglet body weight at the end of the nursery phase1
In pig production, within-batch variation in body weight (BW) gain of piglets during the nursery period (up to 10 weeks of age) can be high and is of high economic importance. Homogeneity of BW within batches of animals is important as it influences the efficiency of use of the grower and finisher facilities, and provides an extra value for the fattening farms. In the current study, factors for a low BW at the end of the nursery period of pigs were determined by analysing datasets from three different Swine Research Centres in the Netherlands and France.
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Oat B-glucan and dietary calcium and phosphorus differentially modify intestinal expression of proinflammatory cytokines and monocarboxylate transporter 1 and cecal morphology in weaned pigs
Physiologic effects of dietary oat B-glucan and low and high dietary calcium-phosphorus (CaP) on intestinal morphology and gene expression related to SCFA absorption, mucus production, inflammation, and peptide digestion have not been established in weaned mammals. We therefore randomized 32 weaned pigs into 4 equal groups that received a cornstarch-casein-based diet with low (65% of the Ca and P
requirement) and high (125 and 115% of the Ca and P requirement, respectively) CaP levels and low- and high-CaP diets supplemented with 8.95% oat ?-glucan concentrate for 14 d. High-CaP diets downregulated duodenal expression of IL-1? (P < 0.05) by 30% compared with low-CaP diets.
For full story »
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Saskatchewan Pork Producers Encouraged to Participate in Provincial Biosecurity Enhancement Program
Saskatchewan's pork producers are encouraged to take advantage of a provincial program designed to help them step up biosecurity. The National Biosecurity Training Program, developed by the Canadian Swine Health Board, provides training to help pork producers improve their farm's biosecurity and funding for an on farm veterinary visit to review biosecurity practices. Last month the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced a Saskatchewan enhancement program. Sask Pork Producer Services Manager Harvey Wagner explains the On-Farm Biosecurity Program is a companion program to the national program and producers must participate in the national program to be eligible for the enhancement.
For more information »
Russian vet service reports largest culling ever due to ASF
A record number of 100,000 pigs will have to be culled in the Russian Tver region (north west of Moscow). Rosselkhoznadzor, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance, reports to have found African Swine Fever (ASF) in a large swine operation. On July 24, the veterinary service an reported that an outbreak was registered in the Tver region, in the Rameshskim district – in the pig farm Zavolzhsky. In the complex five animals were said to have been found dead due to ASF. Total stock in the county amounted to 100,000 head of pigs. The statement reads that currently, a team of experts is in the farm to clarify the extent of the threat and to organise all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
For full story »
Immunomodulatory properties of Beta-sitosterol in pig immune responses
The ability to control an immune response for the benefit and production efficiency of animals is the objective of immunomodulation in food-producing animals; substances that exert this control are called immunomodulators. A Spanish product (InmunicÌn MAYMOÆ), based on food plant phytosterols, is being commercialized as complementary feed. The main component of this product is Beta-sitosterol (BSS).
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Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Diagnosis of Porcine teschovirus encephalomyelitis in the Republic of Haiti
In February and March 2009, approximately 1,500 backyard pigs of variable age became sick, and approximately 700 of them died or were euthanized in the Lower Artibonite Valley and the Lower Plateau of the Republic of Haiti. The main clinical sign was posterior ataxia followed by paresis and/or paralysis on the second or third day of illness.
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Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Helicobacter suis strains
Helicobacter suis is a very fastidious porcine gastric pathogen, which is also considered to be of zoonotic importance. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility cannot be determined using standard assays, as this agent only grows in a biphasic medium with an acidic pH. Therefore, a combined agar and broth dilution method was used to analyse the activity of nine antimicrobial agents against nine H. suis isolates.
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Estimation of variance components for postpartum dysgalactia syndrome in sows
The postpartum dysgalactia syndrome (PDS) represents one of the most important diseases after parturition in sows. The genetic background of the disease has been investigated some time ago and heritability estimates around 0.10 have been obtained. To compute current estimates, a dataset of 1680 sampled sows and their 2001 clinically examined litters was used for variance components estimation with a threshold liability model.
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Thursday, August 2, 2012
African swine fever virus outbreaks in Ukraine
African swine fever is registered in Zaporizhia region, the State Veterinary and Biosecurity Service of Ukraine has reported. The report says that losses of pigs from the virus were registered in Komyshuvatka, Zaporizhia region in a private household.
For more information »
FDA seeks comments on antimicrobial drug reporting proposal
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking comments on a proposed revision to its reporting requirements for new animal drugs. FDA is considering incorporating the requirements of section 105 of the Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2008 (ADUFA 105). As part of that process, the agency is reviewing other reporting requirements related to antimicrobial new animal drug sponsors to determine whether additional information should be reported.
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Road transport of cattle, swine and poultry in North America and its impact on animal welfare, carcass and meat quality: A review
This paper reviews the effects of road transport on the welfare, carcass and meat quality of cattle, swine and poultry in North America (NA). The main effects of loading density, trailer microclimate, transport duration, animal size and condition, management factors including bedding, ventilation, handling, facilities, and vehicle design are summarized by species.
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Friday, August 3, 2012
Livestock board takes action to prevent disease
The state Livestock Board says it will have an inspector at fairs across New Mexico to prevent the spread of a virus that gives animals blister-like lesions. The board passed an emergency rule this week aimed at containing vesicular stomatitis.
For full story »
African swine fever virus outbreaks in Ukraine
African swine fever is registered in Zaporizhia region, the State Veterinary and Biosecurity Service of Ukraine has reported. The report says that losses of pigs from the virus were registered in Komyshuvatka, Zaporizhia region in a private household.
For more information »
High prevalence of bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 in Chinese swine herds
Nested RT-PCR was used to investigate bovine viral diarrhea virus in 511 specimens collected from Chinese pigs exhibiting clinical symptoms between 2007 and 2010. Of these, 137 samples were BVDV-positive and the BVDV prevalence rate was 23.1% (9/39) in 2007, 27.7% (44/159) in 2008, 33.6% (34/101) in 2009, and 23.6% (50/212) in 2010.
For full story »
Monday, August 6, 2012
State Fair Takes Precautions After Pigs Show Flu Symptoms
A pig rests at the Indiana State Fair, which is taking precautions this year because of possible flu outbreaks. The State Fair is taking extra precautions after concerns about illness among pigs cropped up at several fairs across the state.
For full story »
CDC Reports Cases 18-29 of H3N2v Virus Infection; Continues to Recommend Interim Precautions When Interacting with Pigs
This week CDC reports 12 additional human infections with influenza A
(H3N2) variant* virus in 3 states: Hawaii (1 case), Ohio (10 cases) and Indiana (1 case). The H3N2v virus contains the M gene from the human influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 (2009 H1N1) virus, as have the previous 17 cases detected since July 2011.
For more information »
Effects of FUT1 gene mutation on resistance to infectious disease
Alpha-(1,2)-fucosyltransferase (FUT1) gene has been identified as a candidate gene for regulating the expression of Escherichia coli F18 receptor gene (ECF18R) which promotes adherence of Enterotoxigenic (ETEC) and Verotoxigenic (VTEC) Escherichia coli (E. coli) via F18 fimbriae.
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Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Horse illness spurs Colorado to extend livestock travel requirements
A horse infected with vesicular stomatitis in Las Animas County has spurred the Colorado Department of Agriculture's State Veterinarian's Office to extend a travel requirement for certain livestock. A release Thursday said that all horses, mules, cattle, bison, sheep, goats, swine and camelids entering Colorado from states with confirmed cases of vesicular stomatitis should have health certificates with the following statement from a veterinarian: "I have examined the animal(s) represented on this Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and have found no signs of vesicular stomatitis and they have not originated from a premises under quarantine for vesicular stomatitis.
For full story »
Co-infection of porcine dendritic cells with porcine circovirus type 2a (PCV2a) and genotype II porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) induces CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) T cells in vitro
Porcine circovirus associated disease (PCVAD) is currently one of the most economically important diseases in the global swine industry. Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the primary causative agent, however co-infection with other swine pathogens such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is often required to induce the full spectrum of clinical PCVAD. While the specific mechanisms of viral co-infection that lead to clinical disease are not fully understood, immune modulation by the co-infecting viruses likely plays a critical role.
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Monitoring of antibiotic consumption in livestock: a German feasibility study
Every application of antibacterial drugs in veterinary medicine may encourage selection for resistant bacteria. In Germany no valid data are available which would be suitable for a species specific estimation of drug consumption especially regarding food producing animals. Therefore, a representative monitoring of consumption of antibacterial drugs in food producing animals should be implemented.
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Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Government Seeks Feedback on Feed Regulations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) would like feedback on modernising Canada’s Feeds Regulations.
The Agency has initiated a multi-year review of its regulatory framework for food safety, plant health and animal health. The livestock feed regulations are being reviewed as part of this process. In recent years, there have been significant changes in science, technology and trade patterns, and an increase in consumer interest in food safety. The CFIA will take these changes into consideration when updating the feed regulations.
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Pork Industry Stakeholders Encouraged to Review Proposed Changes to Health of Animals Regulations
The chair Karl Kynoch is encouraging pork industry stakeholders to review proposed changes to Canada's Health of Animals regulations and express any concerns those changes might raise. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is accepting public comments until August 13th on amendments proposed to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations to accommodate swine traceability.
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In vivo characterization of inflammatory biomarkers in swine and the impact of flunixin meglumine administration
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are a family of chemicals that function to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation, and they are commonly used in people and animals for this purpose. Currently there are no NSAIDs approved for the management of inflammation in swine due to a lack of validated animal models and suitable biomarkers to assess efficacy.
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Thursday, August 9, 2012
African Swine Fever Threatens All Europe
The spread of African Swine Fever from the Caucasus to the east coast of the Crimean peninsula in Ukraine presents an alarming and concerning situation, writes Chris Harris. The latest outbreak, discovered at the end of July and confirmed through PCR tests on samples taken from back yard pigs in the Zaporozhye region, is worrying because it represents not so much a gradual spread of the disease, but a dramatic jump.
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Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network Allows Communication Among Canadian Swine Veterinarians
The Executive Director of the Canadian Swine Health Board reports the fledgling Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network is allowing swine veterinarians to work cooperatively in addressing animal health issues. To address gaps identified in swine health surveillance the Canadian Swine Health Board launched the development of the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, a system that will use social media to allow swine veterinarians to communicate regularly. The initiative was discussed last month in Saskatoon as part of the 2012 Cross Border Livestock Health Conference. Bob Harding, the Executive Director of the Canadian Swine Health Board, explains the goal was to create an organized process for sharing animal health information.
For more information »
Seroprevalence of bovine viral diarrhea virus neutralizing antibodies in finisher hogs in Ontario swine herds and targeted diagnostic testing of 2 suspect herds
A pilot study was initiated to determine the seroprevalence of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) neutralizing antibodies in finisher hogs in Ontario swine herds, including 2 swine herds with clinical syndromes suspicious of BVDV. No herds were positive for BVDV antibodies by virus neutralization. The 2 swine herds with clinical disease suggestive of pestivirus infection were also negative for antibodies to BVDV in indirect fluorescent antibody assays. Prevalence of BVDV in Ontario swine farms is negligible.
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Friday, August 10, 2012
Consumers need more information on antibiotic use
Along with consumers’ increased interest in how their food is grown, the question of how antibiotics are used on the farm also is being asked more frequently. However, there is misunderstanding among consumers about how livestock and poultry producers use antibiotics, according to Jeff Bender, DVM, associate professor, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.
For full story »
CDC: Don’t panic over more influenza cases from swine contact
The Centers for Disease Control called a news conference today to explain an uptick in human cases of influenza H3N2 from contact with swine at fairs, emphasizing this comes as fair season accelerates, the cases are mild and so far this year they do not appear to be transmitted human-to-human. The cases also have nothing to do with consuming pork.
For more information »
A comparative study of Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium and Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis in experimentally infected pigs
Macroscopic and histopathological lesions were detected in pigs infected with each subspecies, and bacterial growth and histopathological changes were demonstrated, also in samples from organs without gross pathological lesions. Six weeks after inoculation, live Mah was detected in faeces, as opposed to Maa. The presence of live mycobacteria was also more pronounced in Mah infected tonsils. In comparison, the Maa isolate appeared to have a higher ability of intracellular replication in porcine macrophages compared to the Mah isolate.
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Monday, August 13, 2012
Genetic variability in swine leukocyte antigen class II and Toll-like receptors affects immune responses to vaccination for bacterial infections in pigs
The genes encoding swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) and Toll-like receptor (TLR) are highly polymorphic in pig populations, and likely have influences on infection and the effects of vaccination. We explored the associations of different genotypes of SLA class II and of the genes TLR1, TLR4, TLR5, and TLR6 with antibody responses after vaccination against Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (ER) and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) serotypes 1, 2, and 5 in 191 Duroc pigs maintained under specific pathogen-free conditions.
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Impact of a long photoperiod during lactation on immune status of piglets
The effects of a long photoperiod treatment around parturition and throughout lactation on immune status of piglets were studied. Sows were assigned to 2 light regimens: 1) standard short photoperiod (SP, n = 17), 8 h of daily light from d 112 of gestation until d 23 of lactation; and 2) long photoperiod (LP, n = 17), 23 h of daily light from d 112 of gestation to d 4 of lactation and 16 h thereafter. In front of the crates, under the side heat lamps and behind the sow, light intensities were respectively 59 ± 5, 109 ± 6, and 44 ± 6 lux.
For more information »
Sensitivity of oral fluids for detecting influenza A virus in populations of vaccinated and non-vaccinated pigs
Based on nasal swab results, 43?8% of pens were detected positive but only 35% based on oral fluids. Overall sensitivity of oral fluids was 80%, and virus was isolated from 51% of RRT-PCR-positive oral fluids. The kappa coefficient for agreement (?) between oral fluids and nasal swabs was 0?82. Among groups, ? was 1 (95% CI, 1-1), 0?74 (95% CI, 0?55-0?92), and 0?76 (95% CI, 0?5-1) for control, heterologous, and homologous-vaccinated groups, respectively.
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Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Prevalence of Swine Hemoplasmas Revealed by Real-Time PCR Using 16S rRNA Gene Primers
Hemoplasma is a tribal name for epierythrocytic mycoplasmas including Mycoplasma suis and M. parvum which are currently recognized in pigs as causative of porcine hemoplasmosis. Here we report a real-time PCR assay for differential detection of these swine hemoplasma species by using allelic primers in the16S rRNA gene, and its application to survey for hemoplasma infections in pigs.
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Pan-European monitoring of susceptibility to human-use antimicrobial agents in enteric bacteria isolated from healthy food-producing animals
Resistance patterns varied widely depending on bacterial species, antibiotics, hosts and region. Resistance varied among countries, particularly for older antimicrobials, but clinical resistance to newer antibiotics used to treat foodborne disease in humans was generally very low. In the absence of resistance to newer compounds in E. coli and Salmonella, the apparent decreased susceptibility should be monitored.
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Prevalence of extended-spectrum cephalosporinase (ESC)-producing Escherichia coli in Danish slaughter pigs and retail meat identified by selective enrichment and association with cephalosporin usage
The usage of cephalosporins for slaughter pigs may increase the prevalence of ESC E. coli in slaughter pigs. Meat may be a source of ESCs in humans, especially imported broiler meat. Selective enrichment should be considered as a supplementary surveillance method.
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Wednesday, August 15, 2012
A defect in dystrophin causes a novel porcine stress syndrome
A novel stress syndrome was characterized in pigs and the causative genetic factor most likely resides within DMD that results in less dystrophin protein and cardiac abnormalities that can lead to death under stressful conditions. The identification of predictive markers will allow us to determine the prevalence of this disease in commercial swine populations.
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Effects of North American porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-based modified live vaccines on preimmunized sows artificially inseminated with European PRRSV-spiked semen
The objective of the present study was to determine if the European porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) can be transmitted via spiked semen to preimmunized sows and induce reproductive failure. Sows were immunized with the North American PRRSV-based modified live vaccine (Ingelvac PRRS MLV; Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, St. Joseph, MO) and were artificially inseminated. The sows were randomly divided into three groups.
For more information »
Correlation among genetic, Euclidean, temporal, and herd ownership distances of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus strains in Quebec, Canada
This study suggests that transmission of PRRSV is likely to occur between sites belonging to the same owner or through area spread within a 5 km distance. Both should be considered in the perspective of prevention.
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Thursday, August 16, 2012
New Mexico Vesicular Stomatitis: Emergency Rule Approved
New Mexico animal health authorities approved an emergency rule amendment Aug. 1 in response to the ongoing vesicular stomatitis outbreak in that state, according to a recent statement from the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB). The current outbreak began in late April when two horses in Otero County tested positive for the disease.
For full story »
Potential T cell epitopes within swine-origin triple reassortant influenza A (H3N2) variant virus which emerged in 2011: An immunoinformatics study
An immuno-informatics study was conducted to determine possible pre-existing T cellular immunity to the recently emerged swine-origin triple reassortant H3N2 variant (S-OtrH3N2v-2011) which acquired the matrix gene of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09. Given the genetic origin of S-OtrH3N2v-2011, our study focused on the hemagglutinin (HA) and matrix1 (M1) proteins to identify common and conserved T cell epitopes. We compared HA CD4+ T cell epitopes of S-OtrH3N2v-2011 with seasonal H3N2 (1968-2011)-HA proteins.
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Evolution of an Eurasian Avian-like Influenza Virus in Naïve and Vaccinated Pigs
Influenza viruses are characterized by an ability to cross species boundaries and evade host immunity, sometimes with devastating consequences. The 2009 pandemic of H1N1 influenza A virus highlights the importance of pigs in influenza emergence, particularly as intermediate hosts by which avian viruses adapt to mammals before emerging in humans.
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Friday, August 17, 2012
U.S. Swine Flu Outbreak Spikes
Today the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that the number of reported cases in an ongoing outbreak of a strain of the H3N2 animal influenza virus (H3N2v) that transmits between pigs and humans has jumped to 145 in the past week.
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African Swine Fever reported in Rostov region
An outbreak of African Swine Fever has been reported in the Tselinskii area of Russia’s Rostov region. This is the first time this year the Russian Service for Phytosanitary and Veterinary Surveillance reports the disease in this region. The disease was reported on August 13, in seven animals of different ages on a private farm. The head of the Rostov Region veterinary service, Sergei Kartashov, qualified this outbreak as ‘very dangerous’ as it happened some while ago but the farm management failed to report it.
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The evolution of novel reassortant A/H3N2 influenza viruses in North American swine and humans, 2009-2011
Novel H3N2 influenza viruses (H3N2v) containing seven genome segments from swine-lineage triple reassortant H3N2 viruses and a 2009 pandemic
H1N1 (H1N1pdm09) matrix protein segment (pM) have been isolated from
12 humans in the United States between August - December 2011. To understand the evolution of these novel H3N2 viruses in swine and humans, we undertook a phylogenetic analysis of 674 M sequences and 388 HA and NA sequences from influenza viruses isolated from North American swine during 2009-2011, as well as HA, NA, and M sequences from eight H3N2v viruses isolated from humans.
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Monday, August 20, 2012
Public Comments On Proposed Changes to Health of Animals Regulations Under Review
The Manager of PigTrace Canada, an initiative of the Canadian Pork Council, reports some pork industry stakeholders have expressed concern that complying with proposed changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulation, will force them to hire new staff or change their business practices. To accommodate swine traceability the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is proposing a number of changes to Canada's Health of Animals Regulations. The public comment period on the proposed changes ended this past Monday and CFIA will now review the comments before deciding whether additional amendments might be needed.
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Influenza Update N° 166
Most countries in the northern temperate zone have stopped weekly reporting or moved over to out of season surveillance schedules. The United States of America is continuing to detect cases of influenza A(H3N2)v in humans. Most cases have occurred with contact to swine and no sustained human to human transmission has been identified. In the tropical zone, the countries reporting notable influenza activity are Brazil, Cuba, El Salvador, Honduras, and Panama in the Americas (influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and type B); Ghana and Madagascar in sub-Saharan Africa (influenza A(H3N2) and type B); Bangladesh, southern China, India, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Viet Nam in Asia (influenza A(H3N2) or B).
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Daily exposure to dust alters innate immunity
Pig farmers are exposed to organic material in pig barns on a daily basis and have signs of an ongoing chronic airway inflammation and increased prevalence of chronic inflammatory airway diseases, predominantly chronic bronchitis. Interestingly, the inflammatory response to acute exposure to organic dust is attenuated in farmers.
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Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Regional PRRS control with an autogenous vaccination strategy
The objective of this project was to investigate the potential of an Autogenous Killed (AK) Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome virus (PRRSV) vaccine to control the disease in a small (20 km diameter) pig dense (1.4 site per km2) area in Québec, Canada over two years (2008-2010). Eighteen sow farms used the AK vaccine and 18 farms participated as controls. Vaccinated and control herds had similar sizes (100 to 2000 sows) and biosecurity practices (PADRAP tool).
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National Biosecurity Training Program Uptake Excellent in Manitoba
An animal care specialist with Manitoba Pork Council, reports the response of pork producers in Manitoba to the Canadian Swine Health Board's national Biosecurity Training Program has been excellent. The National Biosecurity Training Program, based on the Canadian Swine Health Board's National Biosecurity Standard was, launched in the spring of 2011 in Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec and has since been rolled out across the rest of Canada. The program is being coordinated nationally through the Canadian Swine Health Board and delivered by the provincial pork organizations and is open to registered pork producers certified under the Canadian Quality Assurance Program.
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Ascariasis in people and pigs: new inferences from DNA analysis of worm populations
Ascaris is a large parasitic roundworm (nematode) of the small intestine of humans and pigs. These roundworms cause the socioeconomically important disease, ascariasis. For the past 20 years, molecular markers have been used in studies on Ascaris and ascariasis, and added valuable information to the understanding of these roundworms.
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Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Influenza Among Pigs, Humans Appears Mild
There have been more than 220 cases of humans contracting H3N2 influenza after contact with swine this year, but Iowa State University experts say the flu strain appears to be mild.
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Close pig barns at fairs, expert says, as more states report swine flu cases
It's been found in pigs and-or people in more than 10 U.S. states and counting. In less than a month, more than 200 people — most young children — have been infected by an unwanted visitor to many of the state and county fairs that are held at this time of year.
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Influence of long-term vaccination of a breeding herd of pigs against PCV2 on reproductive parameters
The objective of the study was to evaluate an efficacy of sows vaccination protocols in the herd with serious problems affecting efficacy of reproduction.
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Thursday, August 23, 2012
Canada researches alternatives to antibiotics in livestock feed
A $101,000 investment, announced by Parliament member Kelly Block, will help Prairie Plant Systems Inc. develop new technologies to potentially replace antibiotics in animal feed. The goal is to develop feed supplements using health-boosting properties of plants stimulate an animal's own immune system to resist infection.
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RESEARCH: Pig E.coli resistance bolstered by sulphur amino acid diet
Australian scientists have found that a pig, whose immune system has been activated, needs more sulphur amino acids to maintain maximum performance and body protein deposition.
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Mucosal vaccines to prevent porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome: a new perspective
The purpose of
this review is to discuss methods for induction of protective mucosal immune responses in the respiratory tract of pigs. This information may help in the design of innovative mucosal vaccines.
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Friday, August 24, 2012
FAO: ASF outbreak in Ukraine a major warning sign
FAO has released a report warning about the rapid spread of African swine fever, attributing the disease’s rapid dissemination to human factors such as swill feeding. Following the first-ever detection of African swine fever in Ukraine, FAO is warning that while control measures appear to have temporarily halted the disease's spread, it has established a firm foothold in the Caucasus and poses an ongoing risk to neighbouring areas.
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Swine Fever Seen With Two Routes From Russia To Europe
Russia’s food safety watchdog, known as Rosselkhoznadzor, highlighted two routes by which African Swine Fever may spread from Russia into Europe. The virus, which is deadly for pigs and harmless for humans, may spread from Russia’s southern areas through Ukraine to Romania and Austria, Rosselkhoznadzor said on its website today. Another possible route is from Russia’s northwestern regions to Belarus, the Baltic states, Poland and Germany.
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Effect of farm type on within-herd Salmonella prevalence, serovar distribution, and antimicrobial resistance
Salmonella represents a major challenge to the pig industry, as pork presents a risk for human salmonellosis. In this study, we have examined the effect of farm type on the prevalence of fattening pigs shedding Salmonella on 12 farms at risk for harboring Salmonella.
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Monday, August 27, 2012
Revised Swine NRC updates diet needs
The National Academies of Science (NCS) has released the 11th Revised Edition of The Nutrient Requirements of Swine, also known as the Swine NRC.
For full story »
Prevalence and distribution of Listeria monocytogenes serotypes and pulsotypes in sows and fattening pigs in farrow-to-finish farms (France, 2008)
This study was undertaken to acquire new data on the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in sows and fattening pigs in farrow-to-finish pig farms, and to analyze distribution of serotypes and genotypes of the bacterium within farms.
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Dissemination of Clonal Groups of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae amongst Pig Farms in Spain, and Their Relationships to Isolates from Other Countries
Swine dysentery (SD) is a widespread diarrhoeal disease of pigs caused by infection of the large intestine with the anaerobic intestinal spirochaete Brachyspira hyodysenteriae. Understanding the dynamics of SD, and hence being able to develop more effective measures to counter its spread, depends on the ability to characterise B. hyodysenteriae variants and trace relationships of epidemic strains.
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Tuesday, August 28, 2012
European nations impose ban on Russian and Ukrainian pork imports
Germany has banned the import of pork products from Russia and Ukraine because of the continuing African Swine Fever (ASF) epidemics in those countries.
For full story »
Keen Interest Reported in Saskatchewan Swine On-Farm Biosecurity Program
The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board reports a keen interest in the Saskatchewan Swine On-Farm Biosecurity Program among the province's pork producers.
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Development and evaluation of diagnostic tests for the serological diagnosis of brucellosis in swine.
A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA), an indirect ELISA (i-ELISA) and a dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluorescence immunoassay (DELFIA) were developed to test for antibodies to Brucella suis in pig and wild boar sera.
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Wednesday, August 29, 2012
H3N2v Key Points (CDC)
Influenza A (H3N2) viruses with genes from avian, swine and human viruses that normally circulate in swine can sometimes infect humans. When human infections with these viruses occur, these viruses are called "variant" viruses (which also can be denoted with the letter "v").
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Inactivated PCV2 one shot vaccine applied in 3-week-old piglets: improvement of production parameters and interaction with maternally derived immunity
The present study describes the effects of a commercially available vaccine against Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) on clinical, pathological and virological outcomes of 3-week-old piglets from two farms with a clinical history of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS).
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Factors associated with pleurisy in pigs: a case-control analysis of slaughter pig data for England and Wales
A case-control investigation was undertaken to determine management and health related factors associated with pleurisy in slaughter pigs in England and Wales.
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
New Veterinary Network Opens Lines of Communication Among Swine Practitioners
A new national veterinary network is harnessing modern communication technology to allow swine veterinarians across Canada to work collectively to reduce the risk of transmitting swine diseases.
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OIE launches the second version of its World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS)
Six years after the launch of its World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) and in line with its mission to extend transparency, efficiency and speed with which animal health information is disseminated throughout the world, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) announces the implementation of a new version of WAHIS.
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Microbiological baseline study of beef and pork carcasses from provincially inspected abattoirs in Alberta, Canada
In 2006 and 2007 beef and pork carcass swabs from provincially inspected abattoirs in Alberta, Canada were tested to determine the levels of total aerobic bacteria, coliform bacteria, and generic Escherichia coli, and the prevalence of Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).
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Friday, August 31, 2012
Quail as a potential mixing vessel for the generation of new reassortant influenza A viruses
In summary, our result confirmed that quail could be an intermediate host of IAVs for generating new reassortant viruses. Our finding highlights the importance of monitoring IAVs especially pH1N1 in quail.
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Detection and typing of highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus by multiplex real-time rt-PCR
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) causes economic losses in the pig industry worldwide, and PRRS viruses (PRRSV) are classified into the two distinct genotypes "North American (NA, type 2)" and "European (EU, type 1)".
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Simultaneous Infection of Pigs and People with Triple-Reassortant Swine Influenza Virus H1N1 at a U.S. County Fair
Influenza-like illness was noted in people and pigs in attendance at an Ohio county fair in August 2007. The morbidity rate in swine approached 100%.
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Monday, September 3, 2012
Reminder to Producers: Strengthen Biosecurity to Protect Health
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is reminding pig producers to take appropriate biosecurity measures to protect the health of their animals and people who may have contact with them.
The emergence of the variant H3N2 influenza virus in people and pigs in the United States is a strong reminder of the importance of practising on-farm biosecurity and spotting signs of disease early.
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A member of a new Picornaviridae genus is shed in pig feces
During a study of the fecal microbiome from two healthy piglets using high throughput sequencing (HTS), we identified of a viral genome containing an open reading frame encoding a predicted polyprotein of 2133 amino acids. This novel viral genome displayed the typical organization of picornaviruses containing three structural proteins (VP0, VP3 and VP1) followed by seven non-structural proteins (2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C(pro) and 3D(pol)).
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Outbreaks of highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome in Jiangxi province, China
In 2007, herds of pigs in Jiangxi Province, China experienced outbreaks of a severe form of suspected porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) characterized by high fever, high morbidity and mortality in animals of different ages. 152 swine sera and 42 tissues (consisting of liver, lung, lymph node and kidney) from five herds of pigs were collected.
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Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Exogenous source of PRRSV antibody in positive oral-fluid ELISA results
We wish to alert swine producers, practicing veterinarians, and diagnosticians to environmental sources of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) antibody capable of producing positive reactions on a PRRSV oral-fluid antibody ELISA recently implemented in a number of veterinary diagnostic laboratories in North America.
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Using a theoretical framework to determine adults' intention to vaccinate against pandemic swine flu in priority groups in the UK
Vaccination is key in controlling influenza pandemics. Ways of identifying determinants that influence the decision to be vaccinated need to be understood in order to optimize vaccination rates. Therefore, this study aimed to predict intention to be vaccinated against swine flu in priority groups in the UK. An extension of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) provided the theoretical framework for the study.
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African swine fever virus excretion patterns in persistently infected animals: A quantitative approach
The continuing circulation of African swine fever (ASF) in Russia and in the Trans-Caucasian countries has led to increased efforts in characterizing the epidemiology of ASF. For a better insight in epidemiology, quantitative data on virus excretion is required.
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Wednesday, September 5, 2012
ALMA collaborates with industry to help Alberta become PRRS-free
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), an easily transmissible hog disease, can cause production losses for Alberta pork producers and endanger their ability to export live pigs to PRRS-free markets. In partnership with industry, the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency (ALMA) is funding three research projects that help eliminate PRRS in pig herds, with the long-term goal of achieving a PRRS-free status for Alberta.
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CDC reports first H3N2v death as cases rise to 290
Federal health officials today reported the first death from the summer outbreak of a new H3N2 flu virus, in an older adult from Ohio who had multiple underlying conditions and had direct exposure to pigs at a fair. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reported 12 more infections with the virus, a swine H3N2 flu variant (H3N2v) that has picked up the matrix gene from the 2009 H1N1 virus. The new cases push the national total to 290, according to the latest CDC and state case counts.
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Identification of an emerging recombinant cluster in porcine circovirus type 2
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is continuously evolving through point mutation and genome recombination. In the present study, genetic affiliations of 40 PCV2 strains were determined by amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses during the nationwide molecular epidemiology investigation from 2009 to 2010 in mainland China.
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Thursday, September 6, 2012
New Device Eases Stress of Euthanasia
Research conducted on behalf of the National Pork Board and Swine Innovation-Porc has shown a device developed at the University of Guelph to be a highly effective alternative for euthanizing piglets. The Zephyr, a device that uses a non-penetrating captive bolt, was developed at the University of Guelph as an alternative to blunt force trauma to euthanize piglets. With funding provided by the U.S.-based National Pork Board and the Canadian Swine Research and Development Cluster or Swine Innovation-Porc, scientists tested the effectiveness of the device in one study on piglets up to three days old and in another on larger piglets up to nine kilograms.
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U of M faculty find antimicrobials altering intestinal bacteria composition in swine
Researchers from the University of Minnesota's College of Veterinary Medicine, concerned about the use of antibiotics in animal production, have found that antimicrobial growth promoters administered to swine can alter the kind of bacteria present in the animal's intestinal track, resulting in an accelerated rate of growth and development in the animals.
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Prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of the current porcine circovirus 2 genotypes after implementation of widespread vaccination programmes in the USA
To determine the prevalence of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) genotypes in the USA during 2010-2011, 5 years after widespread PCV2 vaccination, serum samples from clinically normal pigs that were PCV2 vaccinated (n?=?1177), non-vaccinated (n?=?378) or of unknown vaccination status (n?=?120), and 100 lung samples from pigs diagnosed with PCV-associated disease (PCVAD) were tested. The presence of PCV2, PCV1, PCV1-2a and porcine parvovirus (PPV) DNA was determined by PCR.
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Friday, September 7, 2012
Research Confirms Effectiveness of Zephyr
A device developed at the University of Guelph is helping relieve some of the stress that's caused when swine barn workers are forced to euthanize compromised piglets. The Zephyr, developed at the University of Guelph as an alternative to blunt force trauma, uses a non-penetrating captive bolt to cause a traumatic impact with the skull rendering the pig immediately insensible.
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Boehringer Ingelheim opens annual call for PRRS research proposals
To help research on Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome (PRRS), the US division of Boehringer Ingelheim issued a call for proposals for the Annual Boehringer Ingelheim Advancement in PRRS Research Award Program. The deadline for submissions are January 1 of each year.
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Evaluation of serovar-independent ELISA antigens of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in pigs, following experimental challenge with A. pleuropneumoniae, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida
ApxIVA-N-based ELISAs can be used for evaluating App status in commercial herds, but some appear limited by high carriage rates of low-virulence App. The 39-kDa antigen is only of merit in exclusion of App disease by negative serology.
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Monday, September 10, 2012
Flu parallels: Swine-origin H1N2 has gene from 2009 H1N1
The swine-origin H1N2 virus found in three Minnesotans last week carries the matrix gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus, marking the first time such a virus has been found in humans, according to state and federal health officials. The variant H1N2, or H1N2v, virus is different from the swine-origin H3N2v strain that has cropped up in nearly 300 people within the past year. But the two are alike in that both picked up the pandemic virus's matrix gene.
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Methicillin-susceptible ST398 Staphylococcus aureus responsible for bloodstream infections: an emerging human-adapted subclone?
In the course of an annual 3-month bloodstream infections (BSI) survey conducted during a four-year period in 31 healthcare institutions located in three noncontiguous French regions, we report 18 ST398 Staphylococcus aureus BSI. ST398 BSI incidence showed a seven-fold increase during the study period (0.002 per 1,000 patient days in 2007 vs. 0.014 in 2010) For For more information »
New findings regarding the epidemic history and population dynamics of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 hepatitis E virus inferred by molecular evolution
Population dynamics of the three lineages shared some common characteristics, but had distinguishing features. The appearance of 3a and 3e lineages coincides with the increase of large-race pig importation from Europe and the USA after 1960. The epidemic phase of 3a and 3b strains from 1960 to 1980 could be related to increased opportunity for HEV infection arising from large-scale pig breeding since 1960. Our observations revealed new findings concerning the close relationship between the epidemic history of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 HEV and the improvement of the Japanese pig industry. Infection control in pig farms should be an effective method of preventing HEV infection in humans.
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Tuesday, September 11, 2012
New Veterinary Network Opens Dialogue Among Swine Practitioners
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network reports over half of the swine practitioners across Canada have provided input for its first series of veterinary network meetings. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, created on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board, allows swine veterinarians to share information among their peers on disease issues developing in their regions. Information gathered through an on-line survey where veterinarians report on diseases they've encountered in the past three months, whether the incidence of disease is changing and provide comments, is shared through a national communications network.
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Researchers look for better tools to detect swine dysentery
Veterinary researchers at Iowa State University are developing improved methods to diagnose a re-emerging swine disease that was essentially a non-issue five years ago but has become increasingly more common since then. Swine dysentery, also known as bloody scours, is a disease in pigs that causes diarrhea containing mucus and blood and eventually leads to uneven growth and increased mortality among infected herds. The disease is caused by Gram-negative spirochete bacteria known as Brachyspira hyodysenteriae.
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Factors analysis and genetic parameter estimation of female reproductive traits in pigs
Reproductive performance of stock sows is one of the important factors of economic impact in pig farms. In this study, 8491 litter records from 2699 sows of Yorkshire, Landrace, and Duroc were analyzed using fixed model to determine the effect of parity, mating season, and breed on total number born (TNB), number healthy birth (NHB), litter birth weight (LWB), number weak birth (NWB), stillbirth, mummy fetus, and deform fetus by the least square analysis.
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Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Pig Code Scientists' Committee Report
The Scientists’ Committee report for the Pig Code is now complete. This peer-reviewed report provides a review of scientific research related to the priority welfare issues selected as part of the Pig Code process. The report serves to present the latest findings on the key issues and is used to inform the discussions of the Pig Code Development Committee. A draft of the Code is expected to be ready for public comment early in 2013.
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Observational study of farms with air filtering against the PRRS virus in North America
In spite of the proven success of the different control and eradication strategies against the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRS), this disease still causes enormous losses in the North American swine sector. Sows' farms with a correct biosafety but with an important record of windborne reinfections due to new PRRS virus strains have chosen the adaptation of their production system towards the air filtering.
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Live attenuated influenza vaccine provides superior protection from heterologous infection in pigs with maternal antibodies without inducing vaccine associated enhanced respiratory disease
Control of swine influenza A virus (IAV) in the US is hindered since inactivated vaccines do not provide robust cross-protection against the multiple antigenic variants co-circulating in the field. Vaccine efficacy can be further limited when administered to young pigs that possess maternally derived immunity.
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Thursday, September 13, 2012
Swine Veterinarians Participate in New Swine Disease Surveillance and Response Initiative
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network reports over half of the swine veterinarians in Canada took part in the first round of surveys conducted as part of a new swine disease surveillance and response initiative. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, created on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board, allows swine veterinarians to share information on disease issues developing in their regions.
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Take steps now to reduce influenza risk
With human cases of H3N2 influenza virus, reportedly contracted from pigs at fairs this summer, pork producers are turning their attention to prevention measures among employees and in their herds. Investigations into H3N2v cases indicate that the main risk factor for infection is prolonged exposure to pigs, mostly in fair settings, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Associated illness so far has been mostly mild with symptoms similar to seasonal flu and most cases have occurred in children who have little immunity against this virus.
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A Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Mutant with 234 Amino Acids in Capsid Protein Showed More Virulence In Vivo, Compared with Classical PCV2a/b Strain
Twenty healthy, 30-day-old, commercial piglets served as controls or were challenged with PCV2a, PCV2b and the newly emerging mutant virus. A series of indexes representing different parameters were adopted to evaluate virulence, including clinical signs, serological detection, viral load and distribution, changes in immune cell subsets in the peripheral blood, and evaluation of pathological lesions.
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Friday, September 14, 2012
Veterinary Response to New National Communications Network Positive
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports the response to a new national communications network for swine practitioners has been positive. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network is a national communications network which allows swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on disease issues developing in their regions.
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Ferret study underlines persistent threat of swine flu viruses
A Korean-US research team has identified an H1N2 strain of swine influenza capable of killing ferrets and spreading among them by respiratory droplets, underlining the continuing threat of swine flu to humans amid a wave of swine-origin flu cases in Americans exposed to pigs at agricultural fairs.
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Antiviral activity of zinc salts against transmissible gastroenteritis virus in vitro
Zinc has been shown to mediate antiviral effects against certain viruses. However, the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown.
We investigated the effects of the two zinc salts, zinc chloride
(ZnCl(2)) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO(4)), on infection of swine testicle (ST) cells with transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and compared it to the effects of a control salt, magnesium sulfate (MgSO(4)).
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Monday, September 17, 2012
Influenza: Dynamic In Pigs and People
During the 1918 human influenza pandemic, clinical signs of respiratory disease were reported in pigs in Europe and in the United States. Since that time, there has been a complex interplay of viruses between humans, poultry (birds) and pigs.
Acute respiratory disease can occur in pigs, but in many instances the infections are subclinical. Pigs appear to play a role in the reassortment of flu viruses, and this process has been documented repeatedly in the last 20 years.
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Analysis of the excretion dynamics and genotypic characteristics of rotavirus A during the lives of pigs raised on farms for meat production
To determine the excretion dynamics and genotypic characteristics of rotavirus A (RVA), a longitudinal observational study was performed in 10 pigs from 3 litters at a farrow-to-finish farm. A total of 400 fecal samples were directly collected from the rectums of individual pigs (aged 7 to 217 days) at 3- to 14-day intervals.
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Framing risk in pandemic influenza policy and control
This article explores differing understandings of 'risk' in relation to pandemic influenza policy and control. After a preliminary overview of methodological and practical problems in risk analysis, ways in which risk was framed and managed in three historical cases were examined.
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Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Evaluation of external biosecurity practices on southern Ontario sow farms
The objectives of this study were: (i) to summarize external biosecurity practices on sow farms in southern Ontario; (ii) to cluster these farms into discrete biosecurity groups and to describe their characteristics, the variables of importance in differentiating between these groups, and their geographic distribution; and (iii) to identify significant predictors of biosecurity group membership.
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Detection of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in nasal swabs sampled from pig farmers
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, which is non-pathogenic for human beings, is the aetiologic agent of enzootic pneumonia (EP) in pigs. This disease is widespread, leading to endemic infections in regions of intensive pig production worldwide. The development and severity of EP is influenced by various factors including management, hygiene, vaccination etc (Maes and others 2008).
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Heightened adaptive immune responses following vaccination with a temperature-sensitive, live-attenuated influenza virus compared to adjuvanted, whole-inactivated virus in pigs
In the United States there are currently two influenza vaccine platforms approved for use in humans-conventional inactivated virus and live-attenuated influenza virus (LAIV). One of the major challenges for influenza A virus (IAV) vaccination is designing a platform that provides protection across strains. Pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) IAV swept the globe in 2009 and crossed the species barrier, infecting swine in several countries. Pigs are a natural host for IAV and serve as a model for evaluating immune responses following vaccination and challenge.
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Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Evaluation of external biosecurity practices on southern Ontario sow farms
The objectives of this study were: (i) to summarize external biosecurity practices on sow farms in southern Ontario; (ii) to cluster these farms into discrete biosecurity groups and to describe their characteristics, the variables of importance in differentiating between these groups, and their geographic distribution; and (iii) to identify significant predictors of biosecurity group membership.
For full story »
Detection of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in nasal swabs sampled from pig farmers
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, which is non-pathogenic for human beings, is the aetiologic agent of enzootic pneumonia (EP) in pigs. This disease is widespread, leading to endemic infections in regions of intensive pig production worldwide. The development and severity of EP is influenced by various factors including management, hygiene, vaccination etc (Maes and others 2008).
For full story »
Heightened adaptive immune responses following vaccination with a temperature-sensitive, live-attenuated influenza virus compared to adjuvanted, whole-inactivated virus in pigs
In the United States there are currently two influenza vaccine platforms approved for use in humans-conventional inactivated virus and live-attenuated influenza virus (LAIV). One of the major challenges for influenza A virus (IAV) vaccination is designing a platform that provides protection across strains. Pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) IAV swept the globe in 2009 and crossed the species barrier, infecting swine in several countries. Pigs are a natural host for IAV and serve as a model for evaluating immune responses following vaccination and challenge.
For full story »
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Pfizer Animal Health Names 2012 Allen D. Leman Science In Practice Award Winner - Julie Menard, DVM, Of Quebec
Pfizer Animal Health named Julie Menard, Agr., DVM, of Ange-Gardien, Quebec, the 2012 Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award Winner. The announcement was made at the 2012 Allen D. Leman Swine Conference for veterinary continuing education in St. Paul, Minnesota, by Shelley Stanford, DVM, Director, U.S. Pork Technical Services.
Menard is a consultant with F. Menard, Inc. in Ange-Gardien, Quebec. She focuses on sow herd management and PRRS control through gilt acclimation, biosecurity, air filtration in barns, and regional control.
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Research: Antibiotic resistance in pigs
France launched a national plan to combat antibiotic resistance in November 2011, compatible with European animal health recommendations.
Among the precautions taken for pigs, the plan included a moratorium on 3rd and 4th generation cephalosporine use (not used preventatively on piglets, use only after an antibiogram), and limitation of the application of fluoroquinolones (no use before antibiogram, for example). It is quite difficult to know precisely what a given farmer’s antibiotics use is, and whether the treatment is preventative or curative. To uncover this, IFIP (Institut Français du Porc) set up an investigation targeting antibiotics use at the farmer’s level. The investigation reports the number of treatments on animals, number of days under antibiotic treatment, and the selection pressure (% of pig weight treated by day on a farm).
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Reproduction in farm animals in an era of rapid genetic change: will genetic change outpace our knowledge of physiology?
Compared with other domestic species, genetic nucleus selection has gradually increased both prolificacy and productivity of the breeding sow and the post-natal growth performance of commercial progeny. However, increasing variation in litter birth weight and foetal development may be indirect consequences of interactions among multiple genes controlling prolificacy and prenatal development. Phenotypic plasticity in the litter phenotype also results from effects of sow metabolic state on the developing embryo. New genomic tools may provide the opportunity to better balance the selection of genes controlling the component traits affecting the size and quality of litters born, particularly in multiparous sows.
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Thursday, September 20, 2012
Minnesota reports two new cases of H3N2v flu strain
Two new presumptive cases of variant H3N2 (H3N2v) influenza cases have been reported to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The new cases occurred in a school-aged girl from the Twin Cities area and a pre-school-aged boy from greater Minnesota. Neither child was hospitalized, and both have fully recovered. Both children visited the swine barn at the Minnesota State Fair with their families on Sept. 2, and became ill on Sept. 5. The boy lives with his family on a farm where swine are raised, and could also have been exposed to H3N2v in that setting. Neither family was exhibiting swine at the fair.
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Government of Canada appoints new Chief Food Safety Officer and new Chief Veterinary Officer
The Government of Canada has appointed a new Chief Food Safety Officer and a new Chief Veterinary Officer, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced today. Dr. Martine Dubuc is Canada’s new Chief Food Safety Officer and Dr. Ian Alexander has been appointed as the new Chief Veterinary Officer. Dr. Brian Evans, who previously filled both roles, is taking on new responsibilities at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) as Special Advisor to the President.
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Global effects of catecholamines on Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae gene expression
Bacteria can use mammalian hormones to modulate pathogenic processes that play essential roles in disease development. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is an important porcine respiratory pathogen causing great economic losses in the pig industry globally. Stress is known to contribute to the outcome of A. pleuropneumoniae infection.
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Friday, September 21, 2012
Detection and molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus in clinical, environmental and putative animal sources
Putative animal reservoirs and environmental samples were studied to investigate potential routes of transmission for indigenous hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Hokkaido, Japan. A total of 468 liver samples and 954 environmental samples were collected from 2003 to 2011 for this study. Four swine livers (1 %) were positive for HEV RNA; two strains belonged to genotype 3 and the other two strains were genotype 4. Genotype 3 HEV was detected in a sewage sample and a seawater sample. HEV strains derived from swine liver, seawater and raw sewage samples shared 93-100 % sequence similarity with human HEV strains.
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Application of real-time PCR for detection of Lawsonia intracellularis and Brachyspira hyodysenteriae in fecal samples from pigs
The aim of the study was to develop and validate real-time PCR method for the quantification of Lawsonia intracellularis and Brachyspira hyodysenteriae in porcine feces. Before the optimization process was performed two different extraction methods were compared to select the more efficient one.
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Comparison of real-time PCR and culture isolation in colostrum-deprived pigs immunized and challenged with Haemophilus parasuis
A real-time PCR (RT-PCR) based on the detection of the infB gene of Haemophilus parasuis is compared with culture isolation (Frandoloso et al., (2011) Clin Vaccine Immunol 18, 50-58.), evaluating different subunit or commercial vaccines.
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Monday, September 24, 2012
Farmers and Scientists Call for More Action on Antibiotics in Agriculture
More than 150 scientists and 50 farmers came out this week in support of stricter limits on antibiotics used in animal agriculture as part of a broader effort to tackle the "health crisis" caused by growing antibiotic resistance. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized a voluntary guidance for farmers on the "judicious" uses of antibiotics in agriculture and asked veterinary drug makers to voluntarily phase out medically important drugs from being available over the counter -- but public health advocates have not relented in their calls for stronger action on the issue.
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Serum protein profiles as potential biomarkers for infectious disease status in pigs
In veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, there is a need for tools allowing the early warning of diseases. Preferably, tests should be available that warn farmers and veterinarians during the incubation periods of disease and before the onset of clinical signs. The objective of this study was to explore the potential of serum protein profiles as an early biomarker for infectious disease status.
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Transmission of MRSA CC398 strains between pig farms related by trade of animals
Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clonal complex (CC) 398 is a genetic lineage associated with livestock, especially pigs. The authors investigated the role of pig trade in the transmission of MRSA CC398 between farms using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), a highly discriminatory method for strain typing.
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Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Outbreak of Influenza A (H3N2) Variant Virus Infection among Attendees of an Agricultural Fair, Pennsylvania, USA, 2011
During August 2011, influenza A (H3N2) variant [A(H3N2)v] virus infection developed in a child who attended an agricultural fair in Pennsylvania, USA; the virus resulted from reassortment of a swine influenza virus with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. We interviewed fair attendees and conducted a retrospective cohort study among members of an agricultural club who attended the fair. Probable and confirmed cases of A(H3N2)v virus infection were defined by serology and genomic sequencing results, respectively. We identified 82 suspected, 4 probable, and 3 confirmed case-patients who attended the fair.
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Autochthonous infections with hepatitis E virus genotype 4, France
During January-March 2011, diagnoses of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection increased in Marseille University hospitals in southeastern France. HEV genotype 4, which is described almost exclusively in Asia, was recovered from 2 persons who ate uncooked pork liver sausage. Genetic sequences were 96.7% identical to those recently described in swine in Europe.
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The whole Shebang: the gastrointestinal tract, Escherichia coli enterotoxins and secretion
This review focuses on diarrhea caused by toxins released by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. These bacteria are known to produce toxins that have adverse effects on the intestinal tissue in Man and animals. E. coli is contracted through the ingestion of water or food contaminated by this bacterium. Generally, E. coli colonizes the intestinal mucosa where it multiplies and causes damage to the target cells or interferes with the homeostasis that prevails in the gastrointestinal tract.
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Wednesday, September 26, 2012
CSHB Encourages Swine Workers to Get Flu Vaccinations
With the onset of flu-season, the Canadian Swine Health Board is recommending pork producers take steps to protect their pigs and themselves by getting seasonal flu vaccinations. Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by a group of viruses with different strains infecting different species, it typically spreads during the fall and winter months and causes symptoms, such as cough and fever that usually lasts three to four days. To encourange swine workers to be vaccinated the Canadian Swine Health Board will host a flu vaccination clinic as part of the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum October 17th and 18th in Winnipeg. Dr. Dan Hurnik, the chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board's Long Term Disease Risk Management Committee and a member of the faculty of the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, says often people don't get vaccinated because it's inconvenient.
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Salmonella fecal shedding and immune responses are dose- and serotype-dependent in pigs
Despite the public health importance of Salmonella infection in pigs, little is known about the associated dynamics of fecal shedding and immunity. In this study, we investigated the transitions of pigs through the states of Salmonella fecal shedding and immune response post-Salmonella inoculation as affected by the challenge dose and serotype. Continuous-time multistate Markov models were developed using published experimental data.
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Xenotransplantation: recent developments and futur clinical applications
The aim of xenotransplantation is to allow the transplantation of animal organs or cells to humans. This approach would immediately eliminate the human organ shortage that is responsible for a significant mortality of patients on the waiting list for transplantation of organs. The immune differences between pig and human induce an immediate rejection of porcine tissues by humans.
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Thursday, September 27, 2012
National Biosecurity Training Participation Exceeds Expectations
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports pork producer participation in the National Biosecurity Training Program has exceeded expectations. The National Biosecurity Training Program, based on the National Farm Level Biosecurity Standard developed by the Canadian Swine Health Board, provides training to help pork producers reduce the risk of disease infecting their herds. The program was launched in mid-2011 in three provinces and has since been expanded to include all pork producing provinces. Canadian Swine Health Board Biosecurity Advisory Committee Chair Bill Ballantyne reports the response has been excellent.
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FMD response plans strengthened
A recent high level joint government industry ‘roundtable’, convened by Animal Health Australia, endorsed the revised foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) AUSVETPLAN Disease Strategy.
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Detection of a quantitative trait locus associated with resistance to Ascaris suum infection in pigs
Helminths almost invariably have an over-dispersed distribution in the host population. Human and animal studies have provided evidence suggesting that a large part of this variation is due to host genetic factors. Recently, the heritability for roundworm (Ascaris suum) infection levels in pigs was estimated to be 0.45.
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Friday, September 28, 2012
Evaluation of control and surveillance strategies for classical swine fever using a simulation model
Classical swine fever (CSF) outbreaks can cause enormous losses in naïve pig populations. How to best minimize the economic damage and number of culled animals caused by CSF is therefore an important research area. The baseline CSF control strategy in the European Union and Switzerland consists of culling all animals in infected herds, movement restrictions for animals, material and people within a given distance to the infected herd and epidemiological tracing of transmission contacts.
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Influence of long-term vaccination of a breeding herd of pigs against PCV2 on reproductive parameters
The objective of the study was to evaluate an efficacy of sows vaccination protocols in the herd with serious problems affecting efficacy of reproduction. The study was performed in a large pig herd with about 1200 sows. Before vaccination against PCV2, farrowing rate in this farm was about 65%. Sows, boar and replacement gilts were immunized using Circovac vaccine (Merial, France) according to producer's recommendations.
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Descriptive clinical and epidemiological characteristics of influenza A H1N1 2009 virus infections in pigs in England
Infection of pigs with influenza A H1N1 2009 virus (A(H1N1)pdm09) was first detected in England in November 2009 following global spread of the virus in the human population. This paper describes clinical and epidemiological findings in the first English pig farms in which A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza virus was detected. These farms showed differences in disease presentation, spread and duration of infection. The factors likely to influence these features are described and relate to whether pigs were housed or outdoors, the age of the pigs, inter-current disease and the management system of the unit.
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Monday, October 1, 2012
The One Health solution
The popular press is finally recognizing the important connections among human, animal, and environmental health. Environmental destruction, global trade and travel, intensive agriculture, and other human activities all lead to the emergence of previously unknown microbes that can infect across species, causing zoonotic disease outbreaks like West Nile virus, avian influenza, hantavirus, HIV/AIDS, and others. No wonder the media is paying attention.
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Identification of serum proteomic biomarkers for early porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) infection
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most significant swine diseases worldwide. Despite its relevance, serum biomarkers associated with early-onset viral infection, when clinical signs are not detectable and the disease is characterized by a weak anti-viral response and persistent infection, have not yet been identified.
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Cross-reactive and vaccine-induced antibody to emerging swine influenza A(H3N2)v
Background. Cases of a novel swine-origin influenza A(H3N2) variant (A(H3N2)v) have recently been identified in the US, primarily among children. We estimate cross-reactive antibody to A(H3N2)v by age and assess whether seasonal trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine(TIV),with/without adjuvant, may improve sero-protection.Methods. Antibody to A(H3N2)v was assessed by hemagglutination inhibition(HI) and a subset also by microneutralization.
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Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Influenza A (H3N2) Variant Virus-Related Hospitalizations - Ohio, 2012
Since July 2012, 305 cases of infection with influenza A (H3N2) variant (H3N2v) virus containing the influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 M gene have occurred in multiple U.S. states, primarily associated with swine exposure at agricultural fairs (1). In Ohio, from July 28 to September 25, 2012, a total of 106 confirmed H3N2v cases were identified through enhanced surveillance. Whereas most H3N2v patients experienced mild, self-limited influenza-like illness (ILI), 11 of the Ohio patients were hospitalized, representing 69% of all H3N2v hospitalizations in the United States.
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Prevalence and Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus in Connecticut Swine and Swine Farmers
This study explores the characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in swine and their human handlers in a convenience sample of 35 farms in Connecticut. Husbandry practices are clearly different from better-known concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) with less intensive rearing conditions. Nasal samples were collected from 263 pigs and nine humans on 35 farms during the 2010 rearing season.
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Infectious risk factors for individual postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) development in pigs from affected farms in Spain and Denmark
Two prospective longitudinal studies in 13 postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS)-affected farms from Spain (n=3) and Denmark (n=10) were performed. Blood samples from pigs were longitudinally collected from 1st week until the occurrence of the PMWS outbreak. Wasted and healthy age-matched pigs were euthanized, necropsied and histopathologically characterised.
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Wednesday, October 3, 2012
PRRS Prevalence Study Being Set Up in Manitoba
Pork producers in Manitoba are being invited to take part of a PRRS prevalence study. A project being conducted by Manitoba Pork Council in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board will provide funding for PRRS testing at 85 sites in Manitoba. The goal is to gain a better understanding of what pork producers can do to prevent the PRRS virus from infecting their herds and identify the most effective strategies for preventing PRRS outbreaks. Mark Fynn, an animal care specialist with Manitoba Pork Council, says producers who have a desire to know their PRRS status will be involved as well as their herd vets who will be expected to collect blood samples on farm for submission for testing for the PRRS virus and interpret the results.
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The role of porcine teschovirus in causing diseases in endemically infected pigs
Porcine teschoviruses (PTVs) belong to the genus Teschovirus within the family Picornaviridae. Hitherto, PTVs have had 13 serotypes associated with a variety of clinical diseases. The virulent PTV-1 strains were associated with highly fatal, nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis of pigs (Teschen disease) in the 1930-1950s. Today, less virulent Talfan strains of PTV-1 are more widespread, and PTVs have contaminated swine herds worldwide (endemic or enzootic) together with a variety of common swine pathogens (multi-infection status).
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Direct experimental evidence that early-life farm environment influences regulation of immune responses
In mammals, early-life environmental variations appear to affect microbial colonization and therefore competent immune development, and exposure to farm environments in infants has been inversely correlated with allergy development. Modelling these effects using manipulation of neonatal rodents is difficult due to their dependency on the mother, but the relatively independent piglet is increasingly identified as a valuable translational model for humans. This study was designed to correlate immune regulation in piglets with early-life environment.
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Thursday, October 4, 2012
Inverse relationship between heat stable enterotoxin-b induced fluid accumulation and adherence of F4ac-positive enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in ligated jejunal loops of F4ab/ac fimbria receptor-positive swine
Heat-labile enterotoxin (LT) produced by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) increases bacterial adherence to porcine enterocytes in vitro and enhances small intestinal colonization in swine.
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Porcine circovirus type 2 infection before and during an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome on a pig farm in the UK
The presence of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2) and other pathogens before and during an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PWMS) in pigs is evaluated in this study.
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Isolation of the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus and its reassortant with an H3N2 swine influenza virus from healthy weaning pigs in Thailand in 2011
A total of 300 nasal swabs were collected from 5 pig farms in two provinces in the Eastern part of Thailand in February 2011 and were subjected to viral isolation of influenza A viruses. Two H3N2 and 6 H1N1 influenza A viruses were isolated from swabs collected from clinically healthy weaning pigs on farms in Chonburi and Chachoengsao provinces, respectively.
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Friday, October 5, 2012
Onset of Flu Season Raises Concerns About Human-To-Pet Transmission
As flu season approaches, people who get sick may not realize they can pass the flu not only to other humans, but possibly to other animals, including pets such as cats, dogs and ferrets. This concept, called "reverse zoonosis," is still poorly understood but has raised concern among some scientists and veterinarians, who want to raise awareness and prevent further flu transmission to pets. About 80-100 million households in the United States have a cat or dog.
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Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project Deemed a Success
The producer services manager with the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board reports the Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project has been a success. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome is a viral disease that affects the reproductive performance of breeding sows and slows growth rates among grower pigs costing anywhere from two to ten dollars per pig marketed, depending on severity. The Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project, a Canadian Swine Health Board initiative administered by Sask Pork, provides a protocol under which pig or semen suppliers can certify their stock is free of PRRS. Sask Pork Producer Services Manager Harvey Wagner says initially 92 farms from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec enrolled and 83 have continued to provide test results.
For full story »
Classical swine fever virus isolates from Cuba form a new subgenotype 1.4
Identification and classification of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) on the basis of nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis have become an important tool to study the epidemiology and to control CSF disease.
For full story »
Monday, October 8, 2012
Distribution of Particle and Gas Concentrations in Swine Gestation: Confined Animal Feeding Operations
Dust mass concentrations, temperatures, and carbon dioxide concentrations were mapped in a modern, 1,048-pen swine gestation barn in winter, spring, and summer.
For full story »
Foot-and-mouth disease and its differential diagnoses
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals, which leads to the formation of vesicles, erosions und ulcerations in the mouth and hairless parts of the skin, in particular on the feet. Due to its dramatic economic consequences, FMD is considered to be one of the most important diseases of animals.
For full story »
Nutritional strategies to combat Salmonella in mono-gastric food animal production
Nutritional strategies to minimize Salmonella in food animal production are one of the key components in producing safer food. The current European approach is to use a farm-to-fork strategy, where each sector must implement measures to minimize and reduce Salmonella contamination.
For full story »
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Phenotypic and molecular characterization of a novel strongly hemolytic Brachyspira species, provisionally designated "Brachyspira hampsonii"
Since 2007, outbreaks of severe bloody diarrhea and hemorrhagic colitis have been reported in the United States and Canada. Though the primary causative agent of swine dysentery is Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, which is strongly hemolytic, the current report describes the isolation of a novel strongly hemolytic Brachyspira sp.
For full story »
Work-Related Health Effects in Swine Building Workers After Respiratory Protection Use
Twenty-three workers were examined before and after two nonprotected work shifts. One shift was preceded by a period with diminished exposure by use of respirators. The other shift was preceded by an unprotected period of work.
For full story »
Assessment of the efficacy and quality of evidence for five on-farm interventions for Salmonella reduction in grow-finish swine: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Five on-farm practices for reduction of Salmonella shedding or sero-prevalence in grow-finish swine were selected through scoping study and expert consultation. Specific examples were selected based on supporting evidence from at least one controlled trial (CT), and availability to Canadian swine producers.
For full story »
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Pfizer Offers Grants for Swine Antibiotic Research
Pfizer Animal Health is seeking research proposals to support the continued study of the clinical efficacy of DRAXXIN (tulathromycin) Injectable Solution, a macrolide for the treatment of swine respiratory disease (SRD), the leading cause of swine mortality in the US.
Pfizer Animal Health will provide up to four grants, $100,000 in total, for clinical research on the use of DRAXXIN as part of an overall disease treatment and control plan that demonstrates a direct benefit to swine health. DRAXXIN will be provided to study investigators at no cost.
For full story »
Pork with African Swine Fever hits Russian market
A consignment of bacon from a fair held late September in the Leningrad Oblast was found to be infected with the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus.
This was stated by a specialist at the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor).
For full story »
Complete genome sequence of a novel porcine epidemic diarrhea virus in South china
Since early 2010, outbreaks of porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) have been observed frequently in immunized swine herds in southern China. The suckling piglets are particularly susceptible to porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), with a high mortality rate (90%). Recently, a virulent PEDV strain, GD-A, was isolated from an immunized-swine breeding farm in Guangdong, China. This report describes the complete genome sequence of GD-A, and the data will provide important insights into the variation of PEDV field isolates in southern China.
For full story »
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Canadian Swine Health Board Encouraging Groups Planning Agricultural Meetings to Consider Seasonal Flu Vaccination Clinics
The Canadian Swine Health Board is encouraging groups planning agricultural meetings to consider including a seasonal influenza vaccination clinic. The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends all Canadians be vaccinated against the seasonal flu.. As part of the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum next Wednesday and Thursday in Winnipeg, the Canadian Swine Health Board will be hosting a seasonal influenza vaccination clinic. Dr. Dan Hurnik, the chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board's Long Term Disease Risk Management Committee and a member of the faculty of the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, says influenza is an example of where if both the public and the farm population work together we can really make some headway.
For full story »
Effects of meloxicam and flunixin on pain, stress and discomfort in male piglets during and after surgical castration
Surgical castration of young male piglets is now a generally accepted cause of serious distress and impairment of animal welfare. Awareness of this problem has created the moral commitment to seek for practical and more humane alternatives.
For full story »
International disease monitoring, April to June 2012
African swine fever continues to spread in western Russia Brucellosis outbreaks in Europe Foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks across the Middle East and north Africa continue to present a threat to Europe.
For full story »
Friday, October 12, 2012
CHSB Initiatives Show an Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
The Chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board says initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of the transmission of swine disease are showing an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
For full story »
Risk of African swine fever introduction into the European Union through transport-associated routes: returning trucks and waste from international ships and planes
The uncontrolled presence of African swine fever (ASF) in Russian Federation (RF) poses a serious risk to the whole European Union (EU) pig industry.
For full story »
Estimation of Zn and Cu unit output loads from animal husbandry facilities
Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) are toxic to aquatic organisms at very low concentrations that do not affect humans. We measured the daily output of Zn and Cu in wastewater from livestock farms to aquatic environments because waste from animal husbandry operations contains high levels of Zn and Cu.
For full story »
Monday, October 15, 2012
New Tool Predicts Piglet’s Nursing Ability
Unlike humans, when pigs are born, they enter the world without any immunity against foreign elements like disease-causing pathogens. Their chance for survival relies heavily on getting enough colostrom—a milk-like substance produced by mammals after giving birth.
For full story »
Designing and evaluating risk-based surveillance systems: potential unwarranted effects of applying adjusted risk estimates
Risk-based surveillance systems reveal occurrence of disease or infection in a sample of population units, which are selected on the basis of risk factors for the condition under study.
For full story »
Meta-analysis of feed intake and growth responses of growing pigs after a sanitary challenge
Sanitary challenges negatively affect feed intake and growth, leading to a negative impact on animal well-being and economic losses.
For full story »
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Genetic characterization of swine influenza viruses isolated in Japan between 2009 and 2012
Eleven swine influenza viruses (SIVs) isolated from pigs in Japanese institutions between 2009 and 2012 were genetically characterized.
For full story »
Prevalence of Clostridium difficile in uncooked ground meat products from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The prevalence of Clostridium difficile in retail meat samples has varied widely. The food supply may be a source for C. difficile infections.
For full story »
Protective effect of the maternally derived porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)-specific cellular immune response in piglets by dam vaccination against PCV2 challenge
The objective of the present study was to evaluate (i) the passive transfer of maternally derived functional porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)-specific lymphocytes of seronegative sows immunized with the PCV2 vaccine to newborn piglets and (ii) the functional role of the maternally derived PCV2-specific cellular immune response in protecting newborn piglets from challenge with PCV2.
For full story »
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Efforts Aimed at Preventing Swine Disease Offer Benefits for Humans
The Chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board says initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of the transmission of disease to pigs offer benefits for other livestock species and humans.
For full story »
Seven Tips for Feeding Swine to Avoid Mycotoxins
The hot, dry weather experienced this past summer has resulted in higher levels of mycotoxins in corn grain being harvested this fall.
For full story »
Prevalence of Classical Swine Fever Virus in Domestic Pigs in South Korea: 1999-2011
The major policy for eradication of classical swine fever (CSF) in South Korea has focused on the implementation of compulsory vaccination of the susceptible pig population.
For full story »
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Canadian Pork Producers Respond Positively to Efforts Aimed at Preventing Swine Disease
The executive director of the Canadian Swine Health Board says, even in these tough economic times, Canada's pork producers continue to respond positively to national efforts aimed at reducing the risk the transmission of disease to our swine herd.
For full story »
Major Classical Swine Fever outbreak in Russia
An outbreak of Classical Swine Fever has recently been reported in the Radde village in Russia. According to reports 88 animals died and about another 100 had to be culled.
For full story »
The epidemiology of clostridium perfringens type a on Ontario swine farms, with special reference to cpb2-positive isolates
There is poor understanding of most aspects of Clostridium perfringens type A as a possible cause of neonatal diarrhea in piglets, and the prevalence and types of C. perfringens present on Ontario swine farms is unknown.
For full story »
Friday, October 19, 2012
CSHB Encourages Flu Shots for Producers and Swine Care Workers
The Canadian Swine Health Board (CSHB) is again reminding pork producers and their farm workers to get their seasonal flu vaccination, in order to protect the health of both pigs and people. To reinforce this recommendation, the CSHB held a flu clinic today for participants of the Canadian Swine Health Forum being held in Winnipeg.
For full story »
Flu Shot Clinic At Swine Health Meeting
Hog barn workers are encouraged to get the flu shot to not only protect themselves, but the animals they're working with.
For full story »
CFIA Officially Recognizes CSHB Biosecurity Standard
Today at the Canadian Swine Health Forum in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the CFIA provided its letter of official recognition of the Canadian Swine Health Board (CSHB) National Swine Farm-level Biosecurity Standard.
For full story »
Monday, October 22, 2012
Assessment Shows CSHB Initiatives Add 15 Percent to Export Value of Canadian Hogs
An independent third party assessment of swine health initiatives undertaken by Canadian Swine Health Board has determined those activities add roughly 15 percent to the export value of Canadian pork.
For full story »
Research: Amino acids can help reduce piglet mortality
Researchers from Aarhus University have started a new project that can save the lives of many piglets. The researchers will study whether a small change to the feed for pregnant sows can have a positive effect on piglet mortality.
For full story »
Antibiotic-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis in Abattoir Pigs and Plasmid Colocalization and Cotransfer of tet(M) and erm(B) Genes
This study was conducted to determine plasmid colocalization and transferability of both erm(B) and tet(M) genes in Enterococcus faecalis isolates from abattoir pigs in Canada.
For full story »
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Discussions Underway Aimed at Maintaining CSHB Initiatives Beyond March 2013
Canada's swine producers and other pork industry stakeholders are being urged to demonstrate their support for national initiatives aimed at protecting pigs from infectious disease.
For full story »
Swine flu incidence higher than thought
Routine diagnostic blood testing in the UK and Ireland indicated that the incidence of the disease could be higher than expected, with more than 70% of British herds having one or more pigs test positive.
For full story »
Microbial shifts in the swine distal gut in response to the treatment with antimicrobial growth promoter, tylosin
Antimicrobials have been used extensively as growth promoters (AGPs) in agricultural animal production. However, the specific mechanism of action for AGPs has not yet been determined.
For full story »
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
CFIA Officially Recognizes National Biosecurity Standard
The Canadian Swine Health Board's National Biosecurity Standard has been officially recognized by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
For full story »
New Diagnostic Tools Allow Tracking of Novel Strain of Brachyspira
New diagnostic tools developed at the University of Saskatchewan are making it possible to track a novel strain of Brachyspira.
For full story »
Comparative virulence of clinical Brachyspira spp. isolates in inoculated pigs
Classical swine dysentery is associated with the presence of the strongly beta-hemolytic Brachyspira hyodysenteriae.
For full story »
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Quebec strategy for animal health and welfare – taking action to ensure animal health and welfare
The Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, François Gendron, wanted to acknowledge the importance of the work accomplished by the partners in the Stratégie québécoise de santé et de bien-être des animaux, meeting in Québec for their second annual assembly.
For full story »
Regional Projects to Control PRRS Heighten Willingness to Share Animal Health Information
A swine veterinarian with the U.S. based National Pork Board says regional projects aimed at controlling PRRS have fostered a heightened willingness among producers to share animal health information.
For full story »
Detection and molecular characterization of Porcine astrovirus strains associated with swine diarrhea
Astrovirus has been reported to be associated with diarrhea in pigs. The current study was conducted for the detection and molecular characterization of astroviruses in diarrheic pigs.
For full story »
Friday, October 26, 2012
New Disease Surveillance Models Offer Advantages
A researcher with the University of Prince Edward Island suggests new models being used to demonstrate freedom from specific livestock diseases could become the standard within four to six years.
For full story »
Feral Hog Webinar Focuses on Disease Risks
Feral hogs cause various kinds of agricultural and environmental damage across the Southwest, mostly by rooting, wallowing and depredation, according to a report by Logan Hawkes in Southwest Farm Press.
For full story »
Discovery of a novel Torque teno sus virus species: genetic characterization, epidemiological assessment, and disease association
The study describes a novel Torque teno sus virus (TTSuV) species, provisionally named Torque teno sus virus k2b (TTSuVk2b), originally found in commercial pig sera by applying the rolling circle amplification technique.
For full story »
Monday, October 29, 2012
Flu Vaccination to Protect People and Pigs Demonstrates Concept of One Health
The executive director of the Canadian Swine Health Board says there's a growing recognition among pork producers of the importance of being vaccinated against seasonal influenza. The Canadian Swine Health Board is urging pork producers and their workers to get their seasonal flu vaccinations to protect both pigs and people and, to reinforce the recommendation, offered a vaccination clinic last week as part of the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum.
For full story »
13.4 Billion Dollars In Economic Activity Threatened
At a national meeting of provincial pork organizations held last week, it was confirmed that Canada is threatened to lose many of its hog farmers in the coming year. This decline could equate to a shortage of Canadian produced pork products for our consumers and jeopardising 13.4 billion dollars in economic activity associated with hog production.
For full story »
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium from Swine in Michigan, USA
In 2008, we identified vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in Michigan swine, which was the first report of VRE in livestock from North America. Continued sampling in 2009 and 2010 was conducted to determine whether VRE persisted in Michigan.
For full story »
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Scientists Harnessing Genetics to Select Healthier Gilts
Researchers with PigGen Canada are hoping they can improve the reproductive performance of the sow herd by using genetics to identify gilts that will be better equipped to withstand health challenges.
For full story »
Baytril 100 Approved for Use Against Bacterial Pneumonia in Swine
Bayer has received market authorisation for Baytril 100 (enrofloxacin) injectable solution for treating swine respiratory disease (SRD). This life-saving antimicrobial is bactericidal, killing the major culprits responsible for SRD in swine: Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida and Haemophilus parasuis.
For full story »
Facial lesions in piglets with intact or grinded teeth
Piglets are born with eight sharp teeth that during nursing can cause facial lesions on littermates and teat lesions on the sow. Teeth grinding in piglets is therefore often practiced to reduce these lesions.
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Wednesday, October 31, 2012
381 hogs culled in Yilan for foot-and-mouth disease
A total of 381 pigs from a hog farm in Yilan County were culled after some of the pigs in the farm were confirmed to have contracted foot-and-mouth disease, according to county government officials Sunday.
For full story »
Pigs look healthy but test positive for flu at fairs; transmission seen between pigs and humans
More than 80 percent of pigs that tested positive for influenza A virus at Ohio county fairs between 2009 and 2011 showed no signs of illness, according to a new study. Ohio State University researchers tested 20 pigs each at 53 fair events over those three summers and found at least one flu-positive pig at 12 fairs – almost a quarter of fairs tested.
For full story »
An outbreak of trichinellosis in Hungary
In a small village of Hungary, a human trichinellosis outbreak (affecting eight people) occurred in January-February, 2009. In the outbreak investigation (i) Trichinella spiralis larvae were detected in meat products derived from the pigs slaughtered in the backyard of one of the patients (a foxhunter) in December 2008, and in a brown rat captured in the same backyard; (ii) sera of 24 pigs held in 11 yards of the village and that of some dogs of the foxhunter were found Trichinella-positive; (iii) sera of five villagers who could not be infected in the particular outbreak were also found reactive in Trichinella-specific laboratory tests.
For full story »
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Scientists Examine Potential of Air Filtration to Protect Pigs from Disease
The Canadian pork industry is exploring the potential of air filtration as one method for protecting swine herds from disease. As part of a multi-institutional project being conducted in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board, scientists from across Canada are exploring the potential of using air filtration to protect Canadian swine herds from disease. Lee Whittington, the president and CEO of the Prairie Swine Centre, told those on hand for the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum earlier this month, the purpose of this work is to use technology that has just become available to the animal industry in the last four to five years to create an engineering solution to prevent, in particular, PRRS of mycoplasma virus from getting in and destroying the health of the herd.
For full story »
US increases funding to combat influenza and emerging disease threats
FAO's commitment to fight emerging disease threats in "hotspot" regions worldwide is getting a boost with new funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the UN agency said today. The funding, totalling more than $20 million, will support the ongoing US-FAO partnership against H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and a widening focus on potential emerging pandemic threats.
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Estimating reassortment rates in co-circulating Eurasian swine influenza viruses
Swine have often been considered as a mixing vessel for different influenza strains. In order to assess their role in more detail we undertook a retrospective sequencing study to detect and characterise the reassortants present in European swine and to estimate the rate of reassortment between H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2 subtypes with Eurasian (avian-like) internal protein coding segments.
For full story »
Friday, November 2, 2012
Manitoba Pork Producers Respond Positively to PRRS Prevalence Study
Manitoba Pork Council reports an excellent response among the province's pork producers to a research project aimed at identifying the most effective strategies for preventing PRRS outbreaks. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome is considered the most costly animal health issue facing North American pork producers today. Manitoba Pork Council, in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board, will conduct PRRS testing at 85 sites in Manitoba and the biosecurity practices at each site will be assessed. Manitoba Pork Council animal care specialist Mark Fynn says the information will be used to develop strategies for controlling and eliminating PRRS in Manitoba as well as the Canadian swine herd as a whole.
For full story »
Dissecting the seasonality of PRRS
The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus has been challenging pork producers and veterinarians alike for nearly three decades. Today, two University of Minnesota veterinary researchers are working to determine whether PRRS season is a real or imagined phenomenon.
For full story »
Swine Influenza Virus Vaccines: To Change or Not to Change-That's the Question
Commercial vaccines currently available against swine influenza virus (SIV) are inactivated, adjuvanted, whole virus vaccines, based on H1N1 and/or H3N2 and/or H1N2 SIVs. In keeping with the antigenic and genetic differences between SIVs circulating in Europe and the US, the vaccines for each region are produced locally and contain different strains. Even within a continent, there is no standardization of vaccine strains, and the antigen mass and adjuvants can also differ between different commercial products.
For full story »
Monday, November 5, 2012
Research Helps Pork Producers Maintain Control of Brachyspira
Research conducted at the University of Saskatchewan is helping pork producers identify and contain a new strain of brachyspira responsible for outbreaks of swine dysentery in Canada and the U.S. Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the pathogen responsible for swine dysentery, had been thought eradicated 25 years ago however, a few years ago swine dysentery re-emerged caused by a new strain.
For full story »
OIE: Two More Cases of Classical Swine Fever Reported
GUATEMALA - Two more outbreaks of classical swine fever have been reported to the OIE. One of the new outbreaks occurred at a farm in the Village of San Lorencito, Zunilito, Suchitepequez, where there were 13 cases reported, leading to two deaths.
The other outbreak occurred on a farm in the Village of Xiquina, Santo Domingo Suchitepequez. Of the six pigs susceptible, only one case was reported.
Both farms were backyard facilities and lacked any bio-security measures. The source of the outbreak is thought to be due to swill feeding.
For full story »
Efficacy of simultaneous vaccination with Enterisol® Ileitis and Ingelvac® CircoFLEXTM in a Swiss breeding farm
This study explores administration of two piglet vaccines as compared to the mono- and adjuvant-application. A vaccine against the Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) cap protein subunit and a vaccine with attenuated live culture against Lawsonia (L.) intracellularis were applied to piglets aged 23.5 days on average.
For full story »
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Observations regarding influenza A virus shedding in a swine breeding farm after mass vaccination
An outbreak of respiratory disease in suckling piglets started in December 2010 in a 1200-sow farrow-to-wean facility. Swine influenza virus H1N2 was isolated from nasal swabs of affected piglets and determined to be the cause of the respiratory disease. After 2 months of continuous respiratory disease in the suckling-piglet and nursery populations, a change in the influenza vaccination strategy was adopted.
For full story »
Mozambique: Swine Fever Outbreak in Maputo Province
Following an outbreak of African swine fever, the agricultural authorities in Maputo province have banned the movement of pigs in the province, unless they have been inspected by veterinary staff and are issued with a transit licence. The disease was detected in two locations in Marracuene district on 23 October, and in one case the presence of the African swine fever virus was confirmed by laboratory tests.
For full story »
Influence of mycotoxins and a mycotoxin adsorbing agent on the oral bioavailability of commonly used antibiotics in pigs
It is recognized that mycotoxins can cause a variety of adverse health effects in animals, including altered gastrointestinal barrier function. It is the aim of the present study to determine whether mycotoxin-contaminated diets can alter the oral bioavailability of the antibiotics doxycycline and paromomycin in pigs, and whether a mycotoxin adsorbing agent included into diets interacts with those antibiotics.
For full story »
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
ARC and E Projects Stimulate More Open Communications Among Pork Producers
The Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians reports the establishment of regional area control and elimination projects to fight PRRS has ushered in a new era of open communication among pork producers. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome is considered the most costly animal health issue facing the North America pork industry. With funding provided by the Canadian Swine Health Board, the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians is taking the lead in coordinating a patchwork of local efforts across Canada aimed at eliminating PRRS.
For full story »
Genomic reassortment of influenza A virus in North American swine, 1998-2011
Revealing the frequency and determinants of reassortment among RNA genome segments is fundamental to understanding basic aspects of the biology and evolution of the influenza virus. To estimate the extent of genomic reassortment in influenza viruses circulating in North American swine, we performed a phylogenetic analysis of 139 whole-genome viral sequences sampled during 1998-2011 and representing seven antigenically distinct viral lineages.
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Antibody responses following vaccination versus infection in a porcine circovirus-type 2 (PCV2) disease model show distinct differences in virus neutralization and epitope recognition
Porcine circovirus associated disease (PCVAD) encompasses a group of syndromes linked to infection with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2). Based on the hypothesis that the immune responses to vaccination versus infection are quantitatively and qualitatively different, the objective of this study was to evaluate immunity, virus replication and disease protection in pigs vaccinated with PCV2 capsid protein (CP) and during infection.
For full story »
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Operation National Swine Traceability System Expected Before Pig Movement Reporting Becomes Mandatory
The Canadian Pork Council expects to have a working swine traceability system in operation on a voluntary basis in advance of regulatory changes that will make the reporting of swine movements in Canada mandatory. To accommodate swine traceability, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is revising Canada's Health of Animals Regulation to, for the first time, require the reporting of all movements of pigs.
For full story »
Rickets: case series and diagnostic review of hypovitaminosis D in swine
Rickets can be attributed to nutritional, genetic, hormonal, or toxic disturbances and is classified as a metabolic bone disease. Rickets is most often associated with inappropriate dietary levels of calcium, phosphorus, and/or vitamin D. During a 27-month period (January 2010 through March 2012), the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory investigated causes of sudden, unexpected death and lameness in growing pigs throughout the Midwestern United States.
For full story »
Prophylactic and metaphylactic antimicrobial use in Belgian fattening pig herds
The monitoring of antimicrobial use is an essential step to control the selection and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Between January and October 2010 data on prophylactic and metaphylactic antimicrobial use were collected retrospectively on 50 closed or semi-closed pig herds.
For full story »
Friday, November 9, 2012
Healthy animals make safer food
On the top of the list of important issues in the feed sector are feed and food safety. Many groups in society have a say in this and food scandals make huge headlines in the newspapers. Also animal husbandry is responsible for producing safe food. In the US the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST), a non-profi t organisation composed of scientifi c societies and many individual, student, company, non-profi t, and associate society members, recently presented a white paper dealing with the relationship between animal health and food safety outcomes from a US perspective.
For full story »
Streptococcus suis serotype 9 bacterin immunogenicity and protective efficacy
Streptococcus suis diseases in pigs, most importantly meningitis, are worldwide responsible for major economic losses in the pig industry. About one fourth of invasive S. suis diseases are caused by S. suis serotype 9 strains in Europe. However, little is known about serotype 9 since most studies were performed with serotype 2. The objective of this study was to determine the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a serotype 9 bacterin in piglets.
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Phylogenetic Analysis Reveals Common Antimicrobial Resistant Campylobacter coli Population in Antimicrobial-Free (ABF) and Commercial Swine Systems
The objective of this study was to compare the population biology of antimicrobial resistant (AR) Campylobacter coli isolated from swine reared in the conventional and antimicrobial-free (ABF) swine production systems at farm, slaughter and environment. A total of 200 C. coli isolates selected from fecal, environmental, and carcass samples of ABF (n?=?100) and conventional (n?=?100) swine production systems were typed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST).
For full story »
Monday, November 12, 2012
Are You Ready for PRRS Season?
It’s clear that the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus is a formidable opponent. For nearly three decades the virus has evolved, retreated, resurfaced and, some might say, outsmarted attempts to gain control over it.
When it’s you staring at ailing sows and pigs, counting up the losses and trying to figure out how to put out the fire, it certainly seems like there are more questions than answers. Still, much progress has been made, and more will come.
For full story »
CSHIN Launches Data Network
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network (CSHIN), through a partnership with Swine Database Services (SDS), is now officially launching a program for Canadian swine practitioners to participate in the Practice Data Network. Several practices have already been providing data to the network on a pilot basis.
For full story »
Dose-response investigation of oral ketoprofen in pigs challenged with Escherichia coli endotoxin
In order to determine the effective dose, the effects of orally administered ketoprofen were evaluated in pigs following intravenous challenge with Escherichia coli endotoxin. One hour after the challenge, five groups of pigs were treated with either tap water or ketoprofen (0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg).
For full story »
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Take Aim at Enteric Disease
The organism causing ileitis is passed in feces, leading to transmission of the disease around the barn. Manure management practices and sanitation between pig groups help reduce incidence of the disease. Performance losses associated with diarrhea are always worthy of concern, but add in today’s high feed costs and you have an extra incentive to keep the pig’s digestive tract healthy and functioning efficiently.
For full story »
African Swine Fever Outbreaks in Russia
African swine fever [ASF] outbreaks have been reported in the areas with dense pig populations in the Central and Volga federal districts by 1st Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Yakunin. Previously, veterinarians discovered genetic ASF-virus material in a 12-ton consignment of sausages received by the institution of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Tatarstan.
For full story »
Immune Receptors Involved in Streptococcus suis Recognition by Dendritic Cells
Streptococcus suis is an important swine pathogen and an emerging zoonotic agent of septicemia and meningitis. Knowledge on host immune responses towards S. suis, and strategies used by this pathogen for subversion of these responses is scarce. The objective of this study was to identify the immune receptors involved in S. suis recognition by dendritic cells (DCs).
For full story »
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Outdoor sows have better immunity than indoor pigs
Sows kept in outdoor conditions have a more robust immunity than those kept indoors and treated with antibiotics. This was one of the main take-home messages of Prof Denise Kelly, Institute of Medical Sciences, Aberdeen, UK at this year’s edition of the Pig Solutions Seminar Series, held by animal nutrition company Alltech, in Hanover.
For full story »
Genetics, Evolution, and the Zoonotic Capacity of European Swine Influenza Viruses
The European swine influenza virus lineage differs genetically from the classical swine influenza viruses and the triple reassortants found in North America and Asia. The avian-like swine H1N1 viruses emerged in 1979 after an avian-to-swine transmission and spread to all major European pig-producing countries. Reassortment of these viruses with seasonal H3N2 viruses led to human-like swine H3N2 viruses which appeared in 1984. Finally, human-like swine H1N2 viruses emerged in 1994.
For full story »
The effect of infection order of porcine circovirus type 2 and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus on dually infected swine alveolar macrophages
Concurrent infection with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is known as one of the major causes for porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC). Dual infection with PCV2 and PRRSV is consistently to have more severe clinical presentations and pulmonary lesions than infection with PCV2 alone or PRRSV alone.
For full story »
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Livestock-associated MRSA ST398 carriage in pig slaughterhouse workers related to quantitative environmental exposure
This study showed that working in the lairage area or scalding and dehairing area were the major risk factors for MRSA carriage in pig slaughterhouse workers, while the overall prevalence of MRSA carriage is low. Occupational exposure to MRSA decreased along the slaughterline, and the risk of carriage showed a parallel decrease.
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Inactivation Kinetics of Cryptosporidium parvum Oocysts in a Swine Lagoon and Spray Field
Because of outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis in humans, Cryptosporidium has become a public health concern. Commercial swine operations can be a source of this protozoan parasite.
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Evaluation of factors important in modeling plasma concentrations of tetracycline hydrochloride administered in water in swine
Objective-To model the plasma tetracycline concentrations in swine (Sus scrofa domestica) treated with medication administered in water and determine the factors that contribute to the most accurate predictions of measured plasma drug concentrations.
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Friday, November 16, 2012
6 steps for a PRDC checkup
For both humans and animals the transition period from fall to winter can raise some health issues as buildings are closed up and ventilation, heating and air-quality systems are tested.
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App for identifying swine diseases
Bayer HealthCare is rapidly moving into the world of tablets and social media by expanding the Bayer Farm website with knowledge on animal diseases – available through an app.
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Comparison of the efficacy of autogenous inactivated Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) vaccines with that of commercial vaccines against homologous and heterologous challenges
The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a rapidly evolving pathogen of swine. At present, there is a high demand for safe and more effective vaccines that can be adapted regularly to emerging virus variants.
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Monday, November 19, 2012
Blocking PRRS Virus
A four-year University of Minnesota research trial found that air filtration was 100% effective in blocking porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus from entering a model of a swine production region. As a result of this research work, air filtration has been rapidly applied to commercial swine production.
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Structural vulnerability of the French swine industry trade network to the spread of infectious diseases
The networks generated by live animal movements are the principal vector for the propagation of infectious agents between farms, and their topology strongly affects how fast a disease may spread. The structural characteristics of networks may thus provide indicators of network vulnerability to the spread of infectious disease.
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Exploratory study of Torque teno sus viruses in pulmonary inflammatory lesions in pigs
The pathogenic role of Torque teno sus viruses 1 (TTSuV1) and 2 (TTSuV2), and their capacity to induce lesions are controversial. TTSuVs have been linked to porcine circovirus diseases (PCVDs) and described as cause of mild respiratory lesions in gnotobiotic pigs; moreover, an increased TTSuV prevalence has been found in porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) affected pigs.
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Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Animal antimicrobial use today
When looking at how antimicrobials are used in animals and humans, it’s important to carefully look at the differences between the groups. Speaking to more than 170 participants at the National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s 2012 Antibiotic Symposium in Columbus, Ohio this week, Ron DeHaven, DVM, MS, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) executive vice president, broke antibiotic use into three categories.
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Campylobacter spp. - Prevalence on pig livers and antimicrobial susceptibility
The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. on surfaces of slaughtered pig livers. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was performed to determine the sequence types (STs) of selected Campylobacter coli isolates. Additionally, C. coli and Campylobacter jejuni isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility by the broth dilution method.
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Seroprevalence of anti-hepatitis E virus and anti-Salmonella antibodies in pigs at slaughter in Switzerland
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) and Salmonella bacteria are zoonotic pathogens that can be acquired by foodborne transmission because food animals, for example pigs, are recognized as a reservoir. The objectives of this study were to determine the seroprevalence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and anti-Salmonella antibodies from healthy pigs at slaughter in Switzerland, a country with a good health status of pig herds (e.g., eradication of enzootic pneumonia) compared with those of many countries in the European Union, and a rate of importation of live pigs that is very low (<1%).
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Release of Revised Pig Code of Practice Expected to be Delayed Pending Economic Review
The National Farm Animal Care Council anticipates release for public comment of a draft revised Pig Code of Practice will be delayed as the pork industry evaluates the potential economic impact of possible changes. The National Farm Animal Care Council's Pig Code Development Committee, which is made up of pork producers, practicing veterinarians, swine researchers and representatives of government and animal welfare organizations, is drafting a revised Pig Code of Practice. Committee chair Florian Possberg says the group has been working on the initiative for just about two years.
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Detection of Influenza A Virus Nucleoprotein Antibodies in Oral Fluid Specimens From Pigs Infected Under Experimental Conditions Using a Blocking ELISA
In commercial swine populations, influenza is an important component of the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) and a pathogen with major economic impact. Previously, a commercial blocking ELISA (FlockChek(™) Avian Influenza Virus MultiS-Screen(®) Antibody Test Kit, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME, USA) designed to detect influenza A nucleoprotein (NP) antibodies in avian serum was shown to accurately detect NP antibodies in swine serum.
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Pig-shed air polluted by a-haemolytic cocci and ammonia causes subclinical disease and production losses
There is mounting evidence that bacteria originating from pigs degrade the environment of the pig shed and adversely affect the health of the animals and the pig-shed workers. a-haemolytic cocci (AHC) occur in pig-shed environments, but are regarded as commensals. Ammonia is also a component of the pig-shed environment, and is known to damage upper respiratory tract epithelia.
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Thursday, November 22, 2012
Swine Biosecurity in Canada - in Pictures!
As part of its mandate, the Canadian Swine Health Board (CSHB) developed a National Swine Farm-Level Biosecurity Standard, and a National Swine Biosecurity Training Program to facilitate implementation of the Standard. In order to showcase the overwhelming response of the industry to this national biosecurity programming, the CSHB held a Biosecurity Photo Contest in conjunction with the 2012 Canadian Swine Health Forum, held last month in Winnipeg.
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Prevalence and risk factors for H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A virus infections in Minnesota turkey premises
Influenza virus infections can cause respiratory and systemic disease of variable severity and also result in economic losses for the turkey industry. Several subtypes of influenza can infect turkeys, causing diverse clinical signs. Influenza subtypes of swine origin have been diagnosed in turkey premises; however, it is not known how common these infections are nor the likely routes of transmission.
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Complete genome sequence of a highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus variant
Following the 2006 outbreaks of the highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, the causative agent was identified as the highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV). To investigate whether the HP-PRRSV variant continues circulating and accelerating evolution, we sequenced and analyzed the complete genome of the identified HP-PRRSV field strain SD16.
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Friday, November 23, 2012
Pulmonary pharmacokinetics of tulathromycin in swine. Part 2: Intra-airways compartments
The objective of this study was to assess the pharmacokinetics of tulathromycin in pulmonary and bronchial epithelial lining fluid (PELF and BELF) from pigs. Clinically healthy pigs were allocated to two groups of 36 animals each. All animals were treated with tulathromycin (2.5 mg/kg/i.m).
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A new look at an old virus: patterns of mutation accumulation in the human H1N1 influenza virus since 1918
The H1N1 influenza A virus has been circulating in the human population for over 95 years, first manifesting itself in the pandemic of 1917--1918. Initial mortality was extremely high, but dropped exponentially over time.
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Detection of oocyst-associated toxoplasmosis in swine from southern Chile
Pork has been traditionally considered an important source of human Toxoplasma gondii infection. Pigs, as other meat-producing animals, can become infected by the ingestion of oocysts that are shed in the environment by infected cats or by the consumption of cysts present in tissues of infected mammals, commonly small rodents.
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Monday, November 26, 2012
Expression of kyphosis in young pigs is induced by a reduction of supplemental vitamin D in maternal diets and vitamin D, Ca, and P concentrations in nursery diets
Kyphosis is an idiopathic disease characterized by abnormal, outward spinal curvature. A spontaneous outbreak and subsidence of kyphosis over a 4-mo period in the University of Wisconsin Swine Research and Teaching Center herd coincided with an accidental omission of vitamin D(3) in 1 of 2 premixes used in sow diets.
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Experimental infection of United States swine with a Chinese highly pathogenic strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
The pathogenesis of Type 2 highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV) in 10-week old swine in the United States was investigated.
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Environmental Impact Assessment–methodology with special emphasis on European pork production
One of the most discussed topics worldwide is climate change, upon which livestock production is known to have a great environmental impact.
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Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Pork industry appeals High Court ruling on imports
The pork industry organisation heads to the Court of Appeal this week in the latest move in its legal battle to keep uncooked pork out of the country.
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Detection of Clostridium perfringens type C in pig herds following disease outbreak and subsequent vaccination
Immunisation of sows using Clostridium perfringens type C toxoid vaccines is recommended to prevent necrotising enteritis (NE) on pig breeding farms.
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Immune changes in animal breeders: a pilot study conducted in northern Italy
Farming is associated with exposure to a wide variety of risk factors including organic dusts, endotoxins, allergens and other chemicals.
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Research suggests new pathway for antibiotic resistance
Researchers at Washington State University find urine from animals treated with antibiotics could contribute to selection for antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment.
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Research Looks at Microbes in the Gut as Possible Tool for Control of Brachyspira
Researchers with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine are hoping to harness the microbial populations in the guts of pigs as a defense against Brachyspira.
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Genome Sequence of the Swine Pathogen Streptococcus suis Serotype 2 Strain S735
Streptococcus suis is a major swine pathogen responsible for significant, worldwide economic losses in the swine industry, in addition to being an emerging zoonotic agent.
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Thursday, November 29, 2012
Research Raises Questions About Role of Nutrition in Pigs' Ability to Fight Disease
Research being conducted by the University of Guelph has raised new questions about the role nutrition during the nursery phase plays in the ability of pigs to ward of disease challenges.
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Denmark imposes stricter laws on antimicrobial use
In early November, the Danish Parliament ratified an agreement on new strict rules for the use of antimicrobials in production animals and on animal welfare – both in the barn and during transport.
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Analysis of the swine tracheobronchial lymph node transcriptomic response to infection with a Chinese highly pathogenic strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
Emergence in 2006 of a novel highly pathogenic PRRSV (HP-PRRSV) isolate in China necessitated a comparative investigation into the host transcriptome response in tracheobronchial lymph nodes (TBLN) 13 days post-infection with HP-PRRSV rJXwn06, PRRSV strain VR-2332 or sham inocula.
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Friday, November 30, 2012
The impact of maternally derived immunity on influenza A virus transmission in neonatal pig populations
The commonality of influenza A virus (IAV) exposure and vaccination on swine farms in the United States ensures that the majority of neonatal pigs will have some degree of maternal immunity to IAV.
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Seroepidemiological Evidence of Avian Influenza A Virus Transmission to Pigs in Southern China
Recently, three novel avian-origin swine influenza viruses (SIVs) were first isolated from pigs in Guangdong Province, southern China, yet little is known about the seroprevalence of avian influenza among pigs in southern China.
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Presence of Staphylococcus aureus ST398 and ST9 in Swine in Japan.
Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) is mainly associated with swine and is capable of causing zoonotic infections.
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Monday, December 3, 2012
Latvia will not limit pork exports
Latvia has no plans to impose restrictions on the export of pigs due to recently identifying an outbreak of Classical Swine Fever on the border with Russia and Belarus, stated by the Minister of Agriculture of the country, Laimdota Strauyuma.
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Human T cells directed to seasonal influenza A virus cross-react with A(H1N1)pdm09 and swine origin triple reassortant H3N2 influenza viruses
Virus-specific CD8+ T cells contribute to protective immunity against influenza A virus infections. Since the majority of these cells are directed to conserved viral proteins, they may afford protection against influenza A viruses of various subtypes.
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c-Fos immunoreactivity in the Pig brain following deoxynivalenol intoxication: focus on NUCB2/nesfatin-1 expressing neurons
Deoxynivalenol (DON), produced by the cereal-contaminating Fusarium fungi, is a major trichothecene responsible for mycotoxicoses in farm animals, including swine. The main effect of DON-intoxication is food intake reduction and the consequent body weight loss. The present study aimed to identify brain structures activated during DON intoxication in pigs.
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Tuesday, December 4, 2012
ASF continues to spread in Russia
Two new outbreaks of the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus have recently been identified in the Tver region among wild boars. The first outbreak has been reported by the veterinary services in the hunting area Zavidovo.
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Premises Identification Shown of Value in Addressing Animal Health Emergencies
The Agri-Food Traceability Coordinator with MAFRI says, in the event of an animal health emergency, premises identification offers a range of benefits that will help maintain market access.
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Fetal infections and antibody profiles in pigs naturally infected with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)
The aim of this study was to describe early infections with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) in naturally infected piglets and the piglets' serologic profiles. A total of 20 sows (15 PCV2-vaccinated and 5 unvaccinated) and 100 newborn piglets were studied. Colostrum and serum of the sows and serum of the presuckling piglets were obtained on the day of parturition.
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Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Dr. Daniel Hurnik - 2012 Carl Block Award Recipient
The Canadian Animal Health Coalition (CAHC) is honoured to name Dr. Daniel Hurnik of Charlottetown, PEI as this year’s recipient of the Carl Block Award. Through his hard work and dedication, Dr. Hurnik has made many significant contributions to the Canadian swine industry and to veterinary medicine around the world.
As a key founder of the Canadian Swine Health Board (CSHB), Dr. Hurnik was instrumental in developing a national response to the Circovirus outbreak of 2004-2005. A technical consultant to the CSHB, he has provided expertise for projects dealing with pig health surveillance, preparedness for emerging disease outbreaks, and the development of tools to assist in the early detection of new diseases. Highly respected as a leader and researcher, he has truly served to advance the mission of the CSHB, which is to "provide leadership and coordination in support of the management of the health of the Canadian swine herd".
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Fresh air for pigs beats antibiotics
Sows kept in outdoor conditions have a more robust immunity than those kept indoors and treated with antibiotics. This was one of the main take-home messages of Prof Denise Kelly, Institute of Medical Sciences, Aberdeen, UK at this year’s edition of the Pig Solutions Seminar Series, held by animal nutrition company Alltech, in Hanover.
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Co-circulation of pandemic 2009 H1N1, classical swine H1N1 and avian-like swine H1N1 influenza viruses in pigs in China
The pandemic A/H1N1 influenza viruses emerged in both Mexico and the United States in March 2009, and were transmitted efficiently in the human population. They were transmitted occasionally from humans to other mammals including pigs, dogs and cats. In this study, we report the isolation and genetic analysis of novel viruses in pigs in China.
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Thursday, December 6, 2012
AASV Board Amends Position Statement on Sow Housing
At the request of the AASV leadership, the Pig Welfare Committee reviewed the association’s position statement on pregnant sow housing approved in July 2002. Following its review, the Committee proposed a revised sow housing position statement for consideration by the AASV Board during its 2012 Fall meeting.
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'Superbugs' not related to farming, AVMA official says
Christine Hoang, DVM, assistant director of Scientific Activities at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and an expert on antimicrobial resistance, shed light on the use of antibiotics in livestock during a recent U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) panel discussion.
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Identification of a new cell line permissive to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection and replication which is phenotypically distinct from MARC-145 cell line
Airborne transmitted pathogens, such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), need to interact with host cells of the respiratory tract in order to be able to enter and disseminate in the host organism. Pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) and MA104 derived monkey kidney MARC-145 cells are known to be permissive to PRRSV infection and replication and are the most studied cells in the literature.
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Friday, December 7, 2012
PRRS found in Switzerland - semen transports halted
Swiss veterinary authorities have culled all pigs on a farm in Eastern Switzerland as a Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) infection had spread to other pigs. The spread of the disease was found after intensified checks as last week, the farm was identified as PRRS-positive. Blood checks had tested positive for PRRS virus, the Swiss Federal Veterinary Office (BVET) confirmed last week, in the end of November.
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Scientists Emphasize Pork is Safe
Despite renewed attention over pathogens in pork, consumers can remain confident that the meat is safe to eat, according to a joint statement released recently by the American Meat Science Association board of directors and the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) board of directors published online in ASAS’ Taking Stock. Scientists emphasize that animal health and food safety measures have reduced foodborne pathogens, and food-related illness rates continue to decline.
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Longitudinal study of Salmonella shedding in naturally infected finishing pigs
A 3-year longitudinal study was conducted on a multi-site farrow-to-finish production system. For each of 18 cohorts at three finishing sites, 50 pigs were randomly selected. Faecal samples were collected every 2 weeks for 16 weeks. Salmonella was cultured from 453 (6·6%) of 6836 faecal samples.
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Monday, December 10, 2012
Researchers Focus on Improving Disease Protection Through Air Filtration
Research being conducted on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board is demonstrating the value of air filtration in helping to protect swine herds from the risk of infection from airborne viruses. The Quebec based Swine Development Centre or CDPQ, in partnership with the Saskatchewan based Prairie Swine Centre, is coordinating five Canadian Swine Health Board projects involving veterinarians and engineers from across Canada, aimed at improving the protection of Canadian swine farms from disease through the use of air filtration. Françis Pouliot, an agricultural engineer with CDPQ, says air filtration offers protection from the PRRS virus in particular but also against other airborne viruses such as mycoplasma and influenza.
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PRRS research focuses on swine genome
Swine genomic markers, phenotypes, chromosomes and genotyping are playing an increasingly important role in the latest efforts against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus. The science of genetics will play a vital role in the development of PRRS-resistant pigs and eventual elimination of the disease, according to Dr. Bob Rowland, professor of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, Kansas State University.
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Verification of natural infection of peridomestic rodents by PCV2 on commercial swine farms
The porcine circovirus-2 (PCV2) is the main agent responsible for porcine circovirus associated diseases (PCVAD). Few studies have been done regarding PCV2 infection in other species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of PCV2 infection in the peridomestic rodent species Mus musculus and Rattus rattus on commercial pig farms in Brazil.
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Tuesday, December 11, 2012
New ASF outbreak in Stavropol region, Russia
A new outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) has recently been revealed on a private farm at Altukhov village, Blagodarnenskogo district in the Stavropol region. According to Rosselkhoznadzor, the farmer attempted to hide the fact that pig deaths occurred on his farm.
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EU helps Sardinia combat African Swine Fever
The European Union (EU) will invest E1.4 million to control African Swine Fever on the Italian island of Sardinia in 2013. The island is the only place in the EU where African Swine Fever (ASF) is still present. In the remainder of the European Union, the disease has no longer been present since 1960.
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Investigation of strategies for the introduction and transportation of replacement gilts on southern Ontario sow farms
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is of major concern to the swine industry; infection with the virus can lead to production losses, morbidity, and mortality within swine operations. Biosecurity practices related to the management of replacement animals are important for the prevention and control of the PRRS virus, as well as other diseases.
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Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Analyses of pig genomes provide insight into porcine demography and evolution
For 10,000 years pigs and humans have shared a close and complex relationship. From domestication to modern breeding practices, humans have shaped the genomes of domestic pigs.
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Trace elements in feed, manure, and manured soils
Modern animal feeds often include nutritional mineral supplements, especially elements such as Cu, P, Se, and Zn. Other sources of trace elements also occur in livestock systems, such as pharmaceutical use of As and Zn to control gut flora, Bi in dairy for mastitis control, and Cu as hoof dips.
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Detection of IgM and IgG against hepatitis E virus in serum and meat juice samples from pigs at slaughter in Bavaria, Germany
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging foodborne pathogen with domestic and wild pigs (and likely other species such as deer or rabbits) recognized as reservoir. Pathogenesis in pigs usually leads to an asymptomatic course of disease.
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Thursday, December 13, 2012
New ASF outbreak in Ivanovo region, Russia
A new outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) virus was registered on 7 December at a private farm in Nikulskoe village, Ivanovo region, Russia. Here veterinary services found one contaminated pig. This is the first outbreak of the virus in this region this year. An state of emergency was immediately declared in the territory where ASF has been reported. The first threatened zone (the zone where all transferring of livestock goods is strictly prohibited and where most of veterinary measures is implemented) has been set within a radius of five kilometers from the outbreak.
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Epidemiology of African Swine Fever Virus
African swine fever virus used to occur primarily in Africa. There had been occasional incursions into Europe or America which apart from the endemic situation on the island of Sardinia always had been successfully controlled. But following an introduction of the virus in 2007, it now has expanded its geographical distribution into Caucasus and Eastern Europe where it has not been controlled, to date.
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Control of Classical Swine Fever Epidemics Under Varying Conditions - With Special Focus on Emergency Vaccination and Rapid PCR Testing
In case of a classical swine fever outbreak in the European Union (EU), its control is based upon the culling of swine on infected farms, movement restrictions in the protection and surveillance zones, and contact tracing. Additionally, preventive culling may be carried out. Emergency vaccination and rapid PCR testing are discussed as alternatives to avoid this measure.
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Friday, December 14, 2012
Brazil to supply ractopamine-free pork to Russia
Brazil said on Monday that it had temporarily banned the feed additive ractopamine and other beta blockers that promote muscle growth in animals such as pigs and cattle because it fears being shut out of its largest importer, Russia. The ban will take effect until Brazil can set up a segregation system for beef and pork produced for foreign markets - where ractopamine is banned in meat, said Carlos Mota, a representative of the Agriculture Ministry.
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Proposed antimicrobial legislation could cost swine industry millions
If antimicrobial growth promoters are banned from swine diets, it could cost U.S. producers more than $700 million over a 10-year time period, according to Dr. Harry Snelson, communications director with the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV). During the 2012 National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) Antibiotics Symposium, he highlighted proposed legislation on antibiotics use in livestock and what their implementation could mean for hog producers.
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Effects of glutamine supplementation on the immune status in weaning piglets with intrauterine growth retardation
Neonates with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) often suffer from impaired cellular immunity, and weaning may further aggravate adverse effects of IUGR on development and function of the immune system. In this study, we investigated effects of glutamine supplementation on immune status in the intestines of weaning pigs with IUGR, focusing on molecular mechanisms underlying altered immune response.
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Monday, December 17, 2012
Air Filtration Expected to be a Game Changer in Protecting Swine from Disease
Researchers working on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board are confident the use of air filtration has the potential to be a game changer when it comes to protecting swine from airborne viruses. The Quebec based Swine Development Centre or CDPQ, in partnership with the Saskatchewan based Prairie Swine Centre, is coordinating five Canadian Swine Health Board projects involving veterinarians and engineers from across Canada, aimed at improving the protection of Canadian swine farms from disease through the use of air filtration.
For full story »
Characterization of Streptococcus suis Isolates from Slaughter Swine
The characterization of 61 Streptococcus suis strains isolated from Chinese slaughter pigs was investigated. S. suis serotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, and 1/2 were found in the isolates by serum agglutination. Of all the prevalent serotypes, S. suis serotype 7 is the most predominant circulating in Chinese slaughter pigs.
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Transcriptomic analysis identifies candidate genes and functional networks controlling the response of porcine peripheral blood mononuclear cells to mitogenic stimulation
It is difficult to obtain phenotypic data on disease susceptibility directly from swine in an industry setting. The magnitude of the proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to the T cell mitogen concanavalin A (Con A) has long been used as an indirect measure of the responsiveness of the immune system to antigenic stimulation
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Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network Provides Early Detection of Disease Problems
A veterinarian with Greenbelt Swine Veterinary Services says an event detection system, being developed as part of the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, will provide earlier indications of developing disease issues. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, launched in late July on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board, is a national communications network which allows swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on disease issues developing in their regions. Information collected through on-line surveys is discussed as part of three regional and one national veterinary meeting to identify trends and develop responses.
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Effects of intrauterine growth retardation and maternal folic acid supplementation on hepatic mitochondrial function and gene expression in piglets
Piglets with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) or with normal birth weight (NBW) were selected to evaluate the effects of maternal folic acid supplementation on hepatic mitochondrial function and expression levels of genes involved in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) biogenesis and mitochondrial function.
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Immunologic mechanisms in the adaptation of swine farm workers to their work environment
Swine building exposure causes inflammatory reactions that appear to be attenuated with prolonged periods of contact. The mechanisms behind this adaptation to a dusty and endotoxin-rich environment are poorly understood. Our aim was to compare levels of selected inflammatory mediators in swine farm workers at times with differences in exposure.
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Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Renewed Codes of Practice Expected to Communicate Updated Understanding of Animal Care
The National Farm Animal Care Council says renewed codes of practice for farm animals will allow industry, the public and others to communicate based on an updated understanding of how farm animals are cared for in Canada. The National Farm Animal Care Council, a partnership of diverse stakeholders working to promote farm animal care and welfare, is overseeing the development of updated codes of practice for the care and handling of farm animals.
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Farm-specific lineages of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clonal complex 398 in Danish pig farms
The objective of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clonal complex (CC) 398 using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Dust and pigs at five age groups were sampled in six Danish MRSA-positive pig farms. MRSA CC398 was isolated from 284 of the 391 samples tested, including 230 (74%) animal and 54 (68%) environmental samples.
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Clostridium difficile in Dutch animals: their presence, characteristics and similarities with human isolates
The presence and characteristics of Clostridium difficile were investigated in 839 faecal samples from seven different animal species in the Netherlands. The number of positive samples ranged from 3.4% (cattle) to 25.0% (dogs). Twenty-two different PCR ribotypes were identified. Among 96 isolates, 53% harboured toxin genes.
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Thursday, December 20, 2012
Highlights From NFAHWC Forum 2012
The National Farmed Animal Health and Welfare Council (NFAHWC) recently held its second annual two-day Forum. Participants from a diverse group of stakeholders from Canada’s agriculture and animal health sectors came together to provide expertise on defining roles and responsibilities within the animal health and welfare system, with the goal of creating greater collaboration among stakeholders regarding governance and policy.
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IFIF joins forces with Organization for Animal Health
The International Feed Industry Federation (IFIF) has recently signed an official Co-operation Agreement with the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). The agreement aimed at facilitating and strengthening co-operation between the two organisations, in particular with the regards to the prevention and management of infectious diseases, including zoonotic disease, as well as the support for the development, updating and implementation of OIE standards and guidelines. The co-operation further aims to strengthen linkages between feed safety and food safety.
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Risk factors for contacts between wild boar and outdoor pigs in Switzerland and investigations on potential Brucella suis spill-over
Due to the parallel increase of the number of free-ranging wild boar and domestic pigs reared outdoor, the risk that they interact has become higher. Contacts with wild boar can be the origin of disease outbreaks in pigs, as it has been documented for brucellosis in some European countries.
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Friday, December 21, 2012
Spain shares ASF experience with Russia
The heads of the Veterinary Services of Russia has recently appealed to the Ministry of Agriculture of Spain with a request to share the experiences on how to best fight the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF).
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Pork shippers to meet Russia's new requirement
Canadian pork shippers will comply with Russia's new zero-tolerance requirement for the feed additive ractopamine in meat shipments, Canada Pork International said Wednesday. In a letter to Russia's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (VPSS), the industry group said that, as of Dec. 7, all Canadian pork exports destined for Russia are being tested to ensure they are free of ractopamine.
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A newly anti-Streptococcus suis bacteriocin producing strain from unweaned piglets fecal matter: isolation, preliminary identification, and optimization of medium composition for enhanced bacteriocin production
A newly isolated anti-Streptococcus suis bacteriocin-producing strain LPL1-5 was obtained from healthy unweaned piglets' fecal matter, and was designated as Lactobacillus pentosus LPL1-5 based on morphology, biochemical properties, and 16S rDNA sequencing analysis.
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PLEASE NOTE:
The CSHB News Updates were on holiday from December 24-28, 2012
Monday, December 31, 2012
The rise (and fall) of antibiotics in pig production
Antibiotics have been used for many years with success. Is the increasing resistance against the use of these therapeutic drugs the result of wrong use in animal production or in human health care? An historical overview of an experienced veterinarian.
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USDA issues Final Rule on animal disease traceability
The USDA on Thursday released a final rule establishing general regulations for improving the traceability of U.S. livestock moving interstate. "With the final rule announced today, the United States now has a flexible, effective animal disease traceability system for livestock moving interstate, without undue burdens for ranchers and U.S. livestock businesses," according to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack.
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Clinical Resistance and Decreased Susceptibility in Streptococcus suis Isolates from Clinically Healthy Fattening Pigs
Streptococcus suis (S. suis) has often been reported as an important swine pathogen and is considered as a new emerging zoonotic agent. Consequently, it is important to be informed on its susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. In the current study, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) population distribution of nine antimicrobial agents has been determined for nasal S. suis strains, isolated from healthy pigs at the end of the fattening period from 50 closed or semiclosed pig herds.
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Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Zephyr Gun Shown as Effective Alternative for Euthanizing Piglets
A device developed at the University of Guelph has been shown to be as effective but much less unpleasant than alternative methods for euthanizing compromised piglets. The Zephyr, which uses a non-penetrating captive bolt to cause a traumatic impact with the skull rendering a pig immediately insensible, was developed at the University of Guelph as an alternative to blunt force trauma for euthanasia.
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Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST398 contamination and transmission in pigs after a low dose inoculation
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ST398 has recently been described as a zoonotic agent. Its transmission between animals seems to be a pivotal factor in its emergence and dissemination. This experimental trial was performed to describe MRSA ST398 contamination and transmission in pigs after a low dose inoculation.
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African swine fever in Russian Federation
African swine fever (ASF) is an infectious viral disease that causes high economic losses due to the necessity of depopulation of pigs in affected areas, sanitary measures, trade restrictions, etc. The virus (ASFV) is relatively stable in the unprocessed meat products and environment. Thus, large areas are at risk due to free movement of people and products.
For full story »
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Hog disease surveillance works
The new hog-diseases surveillance system launched by the Canadian Swine Health Board is already proving valuable. Veterinarians were able to jump quickly on an outbreak of pigs coughing in a particular area of one province involved in the national surveillance system. It proved to be a case of seasonal influenza. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network depends on veterinarians to share information about the diseases they’re finding on hog farms.
For full story »http://www.ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/?aid=6976&cn=&an=Hog disease surveillance works
African swine fever in Russian Federation
African swine fever (ASF) is an infectious viral disease that causes high economic losses due to the necessity of depopulation of pigs in affected areas, sanitary measures, trade restrictions, etc. The virus (ASFV) is relatively stable in the unprocessed meat products and environment.
For full story »
Comparative effectiveness of isolation techniques for contemporary Influenza A virus strains circulating in exhibition swine
The current study sought to compare the effectiveness of 2 virus isolation methods for the recovery of contemporary Influenza A virus (FLUAV) strains circulating in swine at agricultural exhibitions. Following the emergence of the influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 virus, increased surveillance of FLUAV strains among swine was recommended for early detection of emerging strains that threaten animal and human health.
For full story »
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Comparison of Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection in light and heavy pigs of market age on farms with routine PCV2 vaccination
Commercial vaccines against Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) are widely used on swine farms. Marked body weight variation at marketing age is a problem on conventional pig farms using all-in/all-out barn management. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PCV2 infection could be a factor influencing body weight variation.
For full story »
Transgenic animals in agriculture
The first reports on the effects of human growth hormone in transgenic mice, engendered speculation about how genetic engineering could be applied to improve livestock for use in agriculture. However, 30 years later this promise has yet to be realised as there are no GE animals approved for food consumption anywhere in the world.
For full story »
Assessment of confidence in freedom from Aujeszky's disease and classical swine fever in Danish pigs based on serological sampling-Effect of reducing the number of samples
Confirming freedom from disease is important for export of animals and animal products. In Denmark, an intensive surveillance program is in place for Aujeszky's disease (AD) and classical swine fever (CSF), including 34,974 blood samples tested for AD and 37,414 samples tested for CSF (2008 figures). In the current system, 3.5% of sows and boars for export or slaughter are tested for both diseases, as well as all boars before entering boar stations.
For full story »
Friday, January 3, 2013
Canada: Salmonella in 13% of feed despite zero tolerance
A CBC News team carried out an investigation into salmonella in animal feed and found that 2 out of 12 bags of animal feed were contaminated despite Canada’s zero tolerance policy. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said they take any detection very seriously, but confirmed that it finds salomella in 13% of the feed it routinely tests.
For full story »
Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network Attracts International Interest
A veterinarian with Greenbelt Swine Veterinary Services says a new system developed to allow swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on developing swine health issues is attracting international interest. Launched on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board in July 2012, the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network is a national communications network which allows swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on disease issues developing in their regions. Information is collected through on-line surveys then discussed as part of three regional and one national veterinary meeting to identify trends and develop responses.
For full story »
African Swine Fever in the Russian Federation: Spatio-temporal Analysis and Epidemiological Overview
African swine fever is viral disease of domestic and wild pigs which leads to almost total mortality and causes great economic losses due to absence of vaccine. Having been introduced into the Russian Federation in 2007 the disease has spread widely in the southern region of the country and since 2011 has demonstrated a tendency to form a secondary endemic zone in the central part of the country.
For full story »
Monday, January 7, 2013
Study Planned to Assess Value of PRRS-Free Herd Certification
The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board is planning a survey of Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project participants to assess the value of PRRS-Free certification. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome is a viral disease that affects the reproductive performance of breeding sows and slows the growth of grower pigs. The Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project, a Canadian Swine Health Board initiative administered by Sask Pork, ran through 2011 and 2012 and provided suppliers of live pigs a protocol to certify their animals as free of PRRS.
For full story »
Experimental infection of conventional neonatal pigs with Clostridium difficile: A new model
The objective of this study was to reproduce Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) using conventional pigs as an animal model.
For full story »
African swine fever (ASF): Five years around Europe
Since African swine fever (ASF) was re-introduced into Eastern Europe in April 2007, the disease has spread through five countries, drastically changing the European ASF situation. This re-introduction has significant implications for the affected countries, and it puts the European Union (EU) at serious risk of ASF introduction.
For full story »
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Who is responsible for antimicrobial resistance?
That was one of the questions that was tackled, wrestled with and given a beat-down at the November National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s (NIAA) One Health Approach to Antimicrobial Use & Resistance: A Dialogue for a Common Purpose symposium. And the answer? Well, all of us are responsible, which makes it a huge issue to contend with. Livestock producers, companion and food-animal veterinarians, human physicians, consumers, regulatory agencies, crop and produce farmers, etc. all have a role to play in the use of antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance.
For full story »
New USDA regulation enhances ability to track livestock moving across state lines
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has completed a final regulation to improve the traceability of U.S. livestock moving across state lines. USDA finalized the regulation prior to Christmas and anticipates that the new federal regulation will become effective in March. The new regulation requires identification and documentation of livestock and poultry moving from state to state.
For full story »
Antimicrobial susceptibility of Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria ivanovii, and Listeria species isolated from swine processing facilities in Colombia
The object of this study was to analyze distribution of Listeria monocytogenes serotypes and antimicrobial susceptibility of Listeria isolates from a domestic swine processing facility.
For full story »
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Using Nitrogen for Euthanasia Offers Improved Animal Welfare
Research conducted by the University of Manitoba has shown, from an animal welfare perspective, nitrogen is a better alternative for mass euthanasia of swine than carbon dioxide. The University of Manitoba in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board, Manitoba Pork Council and Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives is developing a mass mobile euthanasia system for swine and poultry to be used in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak or some other animal health emergency.
For full story »
Antimicrobial susceptibility of porcine Pasteurella multocida, Streptococcus suis, and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae from the United States and Canada, 2001 to 2010
The objective of this study was to provide data on the in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of three bacterial respiratory disease pathogens isolated from swine across the United States and Canada over the period 2001 to 2010.
For full story »
Frequency of virulence genes of Escherichia coli among newborn piglets from an intensive pig farm in Argentina
The enterotoxigenic and porcine enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EtEc and PEPEc) strains are agents associated with swine neonatal diarrhea, causing economic losses in swine production. The main goal of this study was to identify virulence genes of EtEc, verotoxigenic (VtEc) and PEPEc in intestinal strains responsible for swine diseases, by molecular typing using Pcr in newborn piglets from an intensive farm system.
For full story »
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Foot-and-Mouth Disease emerges in China
In south west China Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) has been confrimed in Guangyuan, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. Lab results confirmed FMD type-O, after it has been reported that 30 pigs at a slaughtehouse displayed FMD symptoms, said a report by China Daily.
For full story »
Breeding diseases have more impact on production than epidemics
On Tuesday, Bernard Vallat, Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), stated that in the long term, micro-organisms and other parasites have a greater impact on animal production than epidemics, even as devastating as avian flu or foot-and-mouth disease.
For full story »
Effects of a live yeast dietary supplement on fecal coliform counts and on peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subpopulations in nursery pigs
The object of this study was to assess the effects of a dietary supplement, active dry yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain NCYC Sc47; Sc47), on CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subpopulations and total fecal coliform counts in nursery pigs.
For full story »
Friday, January 11, 2013
Operation of CSHIN to be Assessed This Month
A group of 50 pork industry stakeholders will gather later this month to help the Canadian Swine Health Board test drive the new National Swine Health Intelligence Network. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, developed on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board, is a national communications network that connects Canadian swine veterinarians allowing them to share information on disease issues developing in their regions. The network was launched to help address gaps in national surveillance within the Canadian hog industry and to help improve communications.
For full story »
Flu activity increases nationwide
Influenza activity continues to increase in the United States and most of the country is now experiencing high levels of influenza-like-illness (ILI), according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) FluView report. CDC continues to recommend influenza vaccination for people who have not yet been vaccinated this season and antiviral treatment as early as possible for people who get sick and are at high risl of flu complications.
For full story »
Homogeneity and stability in drinking water of oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs labelled for swine in Europe
The object of this study was to verify the stability and homogeneity in drinking water of five nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) labeled for pigs in Europe, including oral solutions of ketoprofen (300 mg per mL) and paracetamol (200 mg per mL) and soluble powders of sodium salicylate 100%, paracetamol (200 mg per g), and acetylsalicylic acid 100%, under field conditions.
For full story »
Monday, January 14, 2013
Pork Industry Stakeholders Step Up to Support Canadian Swine Health Board Initiatives
The Canadian Swine Health Board says pork industry stakeholders are expressing a willingness to provide financial support to help maintain initiatives undertaken to help protect the Canadian swine herd from the risk of disease. In 2007 in response to a circovirus outbreak, Ottawa allocated funding to help with vaccination and to establish a body to develop strategies to address future diseases issues. The Canadian Swine Health Board has since coordinated developing a National Biosecurity Standard for hog farms and a training program based on that standard, funded research and created a national swine health surveillance network.
For full story »
Well-aged manure lightens pathogen load on the land
When it comes to the makeup of manure, producers often think of nutrient levels that contribute to crop production. What may be overlooked is the fact that fresh manure carries pathogens - potentially harmful bacteria that, when spread on crop land, carry the potential risk of contaminating ground water. A 2010/2011 Ontario study looked at simple ways to reduce the level of pathogens in liquid hog manure.
For full story »
Replication of swine and human influenza viruses in juvenile and layer turkey hens
Since the first reported isolation of swine influenza viruses (SIVs) in turkeys in the 1980s, transmission of SIVs to turkeys was frequently documented. Recently, the 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus, that was thought to be of swine origin, was detected in turkeys with a severe drop in egg production. In this study, we assessed the infectivity of different mammalian influenza viruses including swine, pandemic H1N1 and seasonal human influenza viruses in both juvenile and layer turkeys.
For full story »
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Russia bans pork imports from US and Canada
Russia's food safety watchdog Rosselhaznadzor has found the feed additive ractopamine, which is banned in Russia, in meat products imported from the United States, Canada and Brazil, and has decided to ban imports from one US and two Canadian companies. The long-running international dispute over ractopamine, a drug used to boost growth and leanness in pork and beef production, has become even more contentious in recent weeks. Products from the Brazilian company have been put under enhanced monitoring.
For full story »
Swine Dysentery Too Costly to Live With
Swine Dysentery (SD), commonly known as bloody scours, is a troublesome disease which had been virtually eliminated through scientific breakthroughs in the 1970s and 1980s.
But today, likely due to changes in production practices, it has begun to re-emerge and again cause disease and death in hogs.
SD is too costly a disease to live with. When an infection is suspected, it is important to get as early and accurate a diagnosis as possible. In many cases, if strong biosecurity measures are in place, the disease may be prevented from entering a farm in the first place.
For full story »
Stabilized rice bran improves weaning pig performance via a prebiotic mechanism
Stabilized rice bran (SRB) is classified as a "functional food" because of its prebiotic characteristics. With increasing grain prices and the pressure to remove antibiotics from swine diets because of concern over antibiotic resistance, SRB was investigated as a nursery diet ingredient with and without the addition of antibiotics (ANT).
For full story »
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Streptococcus suis Meningitis in Swine Worker, Minnesota, USA
The case-patient was a previously healthy 60-year-old man (truck driver). On December 14, 2011, severe headache and chills developed, which he attributed to the onset of influenza. He had a history of migraine headaches, and used prescription medications to treat his headache. However, on December 15, he awoke with a severe headache that was unresponsive to treatment. Despite having to stop his truck several times because of the severe headache, he successfully completed his delivery route.
For full story »
PRRS-Free Herd Certification Survey to be Launched at 2013 Banff Pork Seminar
A survey of Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project participants, being launched this week at the 2013 Banff Pork Seminar, will be used to assess the value of PRRS-free herd certification. The Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project, administered by the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board through 2011 and 2012, provided suppliers of live pigs a protocol to certify their animals as free of PRRS.
For full story »
Infection Dynamics of Pandemic 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus in a Two-Site Swine Herd
Influenza A viruses are common causes of respiratory disease in pigs and can be transmitted among multiple host species, including humans. The current lack of published information on infection dynamics of influenza viruses within swine herds hinders the ability to make informed animal health, biosecurity and surveillance programme decisions.
For full story »
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Canada and the United States sign agreement on animal disease zoning
Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced today that Canada and the United States intend to recognize each other’s zoning measures during highly contagious foreign animal disease outbreaks. Although foreign animal disease outbreaks are very rare in North America, this arrangement will help to minimize trade disruptions while still preventing the spread of disease, should an outbreak occur.
For full story »
Pork Checkoff Advises Producers to Get Flu Vaccination
Even though the flu season is now in full force, the Pork Checkoff still recommends producers, farm personnel and others who have contact with pigs get the seasonal flu vaccination as soon as possible to help protect human and pig health. "It's never too late to get a flu vaccination that can help reduce the risk of getting sick and bringing the flu to the farm or workplace," said Jennifer Koeman, director of producer and public health for the Pork Checkoff. "It also demonstrates the industry's 'We Care' ethical principle is in action to help protect employees, animals and public health."
For full story »
The 2009 H1N1 Influenza Pandemic: The Role of Threat, Coping, and Media Trust on Vaccination Intentions in Canada
Swine flu (H1N1) reached pandemic proportions in 2009, yet ambivalence was met concerning intentions to be vaccinated. The present investigation determined predictors of perceived H1N1 contraction risk and vaccination intentions among Canadian adults (N = 1,027) responding to an online questionnaire.
For full story »
Friday, January 18, 2013
Highly Infectious Disease Found on Ontario Hog Farm
Ontario hog farmers are being warned that Transmissible Gastro Enteritis (TGE) has broken out on a pig farm in Wellington County.
The highly contagious disease can devastate piglets that are less than one week old in only a matter of days. The main symptom of TGE is diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. The disease is of grave concern because antibiotics are ineffective against TGE.
For full story »
Calgary Disease Simulation Workshop to Test Operation of Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network
Input from those attending a disease simulation workshop in Calgary will be used to draft the final terms of reference under which the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network will operate. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network allows swine veterinarians to share their observances on emerging animal disease issues. Members of CSHIN's decision making body, representatives of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the National Farmed Animal Health and Welfare Council, provincial governments, Chief Veterinary Officers, pork producers and processors, pig export companies and practicing veterinarians are in Calgary today and tomorrow for a disease simulation workshop.
For full story »
Antibody repertoire development in fetal and neonatal piglets. XVI. Influenza stimulates adaptive immunity, class switch and diversification of the IgG repertoire encoded by downstream C? genes
Infection of germ-free isolator piglets with swine influenza (S-FLU) that generates dsRNA during replication causes elevation of immunoglobulins in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage, a very weak response to trinitrophenyl conjugates but an immune response to S-FLU.
For full story »
Monday, January 21, 2013
Disease Simulation Workshop Identifies Leadership Questions
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network reports a disease simulation workshop has raised questions over who would take the lead in the event of an animal health emergency. Members of the decision making body for the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, a Canadian Swine Health Board Initiative, were joined by representatives of government, pork industry stakeholders and animal health professionals in Calgary this week for a disease simulation workshop. The goal of the exercise was to test the functionally of the IT systems and the veterinary communications network that have been developed and to build relationships.
For full story »
Russia could be free of ASF
Frosts in the European part of Russia are hampering the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), which could result in the country for the first time in almost two years having no commercial zone with a quarantined area due to this disease. Russian veterinary services reported that on 16 January, a quarantine was lifted in several areas of the Ivanovo region, while on 26 January the authorities plan to remove the quarantine simultaneously from the territory of the whole Krasnodar region - most affected by ASF, where restrictions on trade and transportation of pigs were operate during all past year.
For full story »
Isolation and Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Pork Farms and Visiting Veterinary Students
In the last decade livestock-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (LA-MRSA) has become a public health concern in many parts of the world. Sequence type 398 (ST398) has been the most commonly reported type of LA-MRSA. While many studies have focused on long-term exposure experienced by swine workers, this study focuses on short-term exposures experienced by veterinary students conducting diagnostic investigations. The objectives were to assess the rate of MRSA acquisition and longevity of carriage in students exposed to pork farms and characterize the recovered MRSA isolate.
For full story »
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
U.S., Canada cooperate on animal disease zoning
Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced this week that Canada and the United States aim to recognize each other’s zoning measures during highly contagious foreign animal disease outbreaks. Under the arrangement, each country intends to accept each other’s decisions on establishing, maintaining and releasing a disease control and eradication zone if an outbreak of a foreign animal disease, such as foot-and-mouth disease or classical swine fever, occurs.
For full story »
Research: E. coli strains on swine farms in China
Three uncommon O serogroups of E. coli strains have been discovered during a trials to investigate the prevalence and virulence factors of E. coli strains on swine farms in western China. In addition, a high prevalence of enterotoxigenic isolates that produce only K99 or STa was detected. Three to four swine production facilities were chosen from each of the five provinces (Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxi, Sichuan and Yunnan) located in western China, where the climate is dry.
For full story »
African swine fever in the North Caucasus region and the Russian Federation in years 2007-2012
Since the introduction of the virus into the Republic of Georgia in 2007 African swine fever (ASF) has become a large-scale epidemic involving the domestic pig population but wild boars are involved as well. From 2008 to 2009 the ASF epidemic affected wild and domestic pigs in all the southern regions of the Russian Federation (RF). The driving force of the epidemic in its initial stages was direct contact between infected wild boars and between wild boars and traditionally free-ranging domestic pigs in backyard farms.
For full story »
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
New protocol opens doors for PRCV-infected herds
Swine breeders who have herds that test positive for Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus (PRCV) may now be able to access live genetic exports markets that have been inaccessible, through segregated early weaning and stringent biosecurity protocols. "We decided to do this research project because interested Ontario swine breeders are missing out on some export opportunities," says Dr. Sue Burlatschenko of Goshen Ridge Veterinary Services.
For full story »
Quality Colostrum: First Step in Producing Full-Potential Pigs
The U.S. pork industry has the genetics in place to reach the goal of 30 pigs per sow per year — or psy — but pre-weaning mortality remains a cause for concern. In fact, the most recent USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System study estimates that 12.9 percent of pigs born live die before weaning.
Researchers believe colostrum quality is a key to reduce pre-weaning mortality and to help meet the genetic possibilities of today’s swine herd. Industry research also shows that high-quality colostrum plays a role in the pig’s lifetime productivity.
For full story »
Retraction: Triple Reassortant Swine Influenza A (H3N2) Virus in Waterfowl
TO THE EDITOR: We would like to retract the letter entitled "Triple Reassortant Swine Influenza A (H3N2) Virus in Waterfowl," which was published the April 2010 issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases (1). The nucleoprotein gene sequences from the viruses reported in that letter are very closely related to those from the earliest detected triple reassortant swine influenza viruses [CY095676 A/sw/Texas/4199-2/1998(H3N2)]. Although these viruses could have acquired a swine-origin segment, the branch lengths are quite short for 9 years of evolution. Therefore, we have withdrawn these 4 isolates from GenBank and subsequently retract this letter.
For full story »
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Research: Vaccine against African Swine Fever
Researchers from CReSA have demonstrated that protecting pigs against African Swine Fever is not science fiction.These are the conclusions of a study recently published in the journal PLoS One. African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) is in continuous expansion since its last entrance in Europe through Georgia in 2007.
For full story »
Heightened Nutrition During Late Pregnancy Improves Piglet Health and Sow Longevity
Research conducted by the University of Alberta has shown altering the diet of the sow during the last third of pregnancy will result in healthier piglets and increased longevity of the sow herd. As part of research being conducted on behalf of Swine Innovation Porc, the University of Alberta has been examining the nutritional requirements of the sow herd. Dr. Ron Ball, a professor emeritus in swine nutrition with the University of Alberta, observes the physiology of the sow changes dramatically during late pregnancy.
For full story »
The value of animal movement tracing: A case study simulating the spread and control of foot-and-mouth disease in California
The purpose of this study was to estimate the benefits of an electronic animal tracing system and an improved paper-based system in terms of the potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) if introduced in California. A spatial, stochastic simulation model and data for California were used to simulate FMD outbreaks originating from a dairy herd as the index case (IC).
For full story »
Friday, January 25, 2013
Broken needles found in pork at Manitoba packing plant
The Manitoba Pork Council is warning hog producers to be more careful with their animals, after needle fragments were recently found in pork at a packing plant. "In the last month, broken needle fragments have been found twice in pork products at processing plants in Manitoba," the council wrote in the January edition of its newsletter, Chop Talk. "Fortunately, the fragments were found before meat entered the marketplace.".
For full story »
African swine fever (ASF): Five years around Europe
Since African swine fever (ASF) was re-introduced into Eastern Europe in April 2007, the disease has spread through five countries, drastically changing the European ASF situation. This re-introduction has significant implications for the affected countries, and it puts the European Union (EU) at serious risk of ASF introduction.
For full story »
Pre-infection of pigs with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae induces oxidative stress that influences outcomes of a subsequent infection with a swine influenza virus of H1N1 subtype
The severity of swine influenza is highly variable and can be exacerbated by many factors, such as a pre-infection of pigs with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhp). The aim of this study was to investigate the oxidative stress induced by Mhp and the impact of this stress on the evolution of an infection with the European avian-like swine H1N1 influenza virus.
For full story »
Monday, January 28, 2013
Russia - Putting swine fever pandemic in Gods hands
Frosts in the European part of Russia are hampering the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), which could result in the country for the first time in almost two years having no commercial zone with a quarantined area due to this disease. Russian veterinary services reported that on 16 January, a quarantine was lifted in several areas of the Ivanovo region, while on 26 January the authorities plan to remove the quarantine simultaneously from the territory of the whole Krasnodar region - most affected by ASF, where restrictions on trade and transportation of pigs were operate during all past year.
For full story »
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus vaccines: current status and strategies to a universal vaccine
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is the causative agent of PRRS, the most significant infectious disease currently affecting swine industry worldwide. In the United States alone, the economic losses caused by PRRS amount to more than 560 million US dollars every year. Due to immune evasion strategies and the antigenic heterogeneity of the virus, current commercial PRRSV vaccines (killed-virus and modified-live vaccines) are of unsatisfactory efficacy, especially against heterologous infection.
For full story »
Pig Ascaris: an important source of human ascariasis in China
The aim of the present study is to detect the frequency and distribution of cross infection and hybridization of human and pig Ascaris in China. Twenty high polymorphic microsatellite loci were selected to screen 258 Ascaris worms from humans and pigs from six provinces in China. The software programs Structure, Baps and Newhybrids were used to determine the case of cross infection and hybridization of human and pig Ascaris.
For full story »
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
New Species of Brachyspira Responsible for Most New Swine Dysentery Cases
A professor with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine reports a new species of Brachyspira can be blamed for the bulk of cases of swine dysentery being reported in Canada and the U.S. today. Swine Dysentery, a bloody diarrhea, that affects grow-finish pigs typically over 12 weeks of age, is caused by a bacteria of the genus Brachyspira and a number of species within that genus will cause infection. Dr. John Harding, a professor with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, told those on hand earlier this month for the Banff Pork Seminar, the species we have known for many years, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, is being displaced by a species discovered over the past two to three years provisionally being called Brachyspira hampsonii.
For full story »
African swine fever in the Russian Federation: Spatio-temporal analysis and epidemiological overview
African swine fever is viral disease of domestic and wild pigs which leads to almost total mortality and causes great economic losses due to absence of vaccine. Having been introduced into the Russian Federation in 2007 the disease has spread widely in the southern region of the country and since 2011 has demonstrated a tendency to form a secondary endemic zone in the central part of the country. In the present study spatio-temporal patterns of ASF diffusion in the populations of wild and domestic pigs are analyzed.
For full story »
Vaccination of sows reduces the prevalence of PCV-2 viraemia in their piglets under field conditions
The objectives of this study were to further understand vertical transmission of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2) and the effect of dam vaccination on PCV-2 viraemia in newborn piglets. Randomly selected sows from each of two breeding herds were designated as non-vaccinated or vaccinated groups. A commercial inactivated PCV-2 vaccine was administered at weaning and 18 days later to half of the sows on each farm.
For full story »
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
2013 International PRRS Symposium - Beijing, China | May 20-22, 2013
Symposium Highlights include: Virus replication-protein structure-function; Vaccines and immunity; Viral heterogeneity and evolution; Genetics; Virus-host interaction (pathogenesis); Epidemiology and disease control.
Registration Deadline - April 30, 2013
Abstract Submission Deadline - March 31, 2013
Travel Fellowship Application Deadline - March 31, 2013.
For more information »
New ASF outbreak in Yaroslavl, Russia
An ASF outbreak has been registered in the Yaroslavl region, regional department of Rosselkhoznadzor (Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance) reported.
According to the report, one dead wild boar has been found on 24 January 2013 in Uglich district of the Yaroslavl region, Prilutskaya.Pathological material has been sent to the Yaroslavl regional veterinary laboratory where experts during laboratory studies confirmed the preliminary diagnosis as African Swine Fever. Rosselkhoznadzor officials instructed the regional departments for Yaroslavl, Tver and Pskov regions with the State Hunting Agency to carry out measures aimed at preventing of the spread of the disease.
For full story »
Detection of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in drinking water from pig farms
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App) is the aetiological agent of porcine pleuropneumonia and is normally transmitted by aerosols and direct contact between animals. App has traditionally been considered an obligate pathogen of pigs and its presence in the environment has yet to be investigated. Here, the presence of App was detected in drinking water of pig farms in Mexico using a PCR specific for the RTX toxin gene, apxIV.
For full story »
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Pig Trace Canada Prepares to Accept Swine Movement Reports
The manager of PigTrace Canada reports the system that will accommodate swine traceability in Canada is now in place and will be ready to start accepting reports of swine movements within the next couple of weeks. Pig Trace Canada, an initiative of the Canadian Pork Council, is the official swine traceability program for the Canadian swine industry. Pork producers on hand for Manitoba Swine Seminar 2013, underway today and tomorrow in Winnipeg, will have the opportunity to see how the new system will operate. PigTrace manager Jeff Clark explains the main components of the traceability program are premise identification, so the location of facilities that may house or come into contact with pigs, the reporting of animals movements and in some cases the reporting of any identification numbers that are present on those animals.
For more information »
Ontario Pork Meets its Biosecurity Goal
Ontario Pork is pleased to announce that it recently processed its 1,000th barn site visit for the National Biosecurity Training program of the Canadian Swine Health Board. While the framework and standard for farm biosecurity are national in scope, Ontario Pork is coordinating the delivery of the provincial program. The farm-level training program that was developed provides funding to producers and veterinarians to help offset some of the costs normally incurred by producers and veterinarians in adopting these standards in their businesses.
For full story »
Pandemic Influenza A H1N1 in Swine and Other Animals
Influenza A virus infection has been reported in a variety of mammalian and avian species. Wild waterfowl such as ducks and geese are considered the principal reservoir of many influenza A viruses. On May 2, 2009, the first confirmed case of pandemic 2009 H1N1 (pH1N1) in animals was reported in a small swine herd in Canada. A public health investigation concluded that transmission from people to pigs was the likely source of infection.
For full story »
Friday, February 1, 2013
Canada: Certificates for ractopamine-free pork
Ian Alexander, head of Canadian Veterinary Services, informed Sergey Dankvert, head of the Rosselkhoznadzor, that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) had no intentions to issue veterinary certificates for meat consignments that are non-compliant to Russia/Customs Union requirements. Each pork and beef consignment will be accompanied in addition to a veterinary certificate with a document confirming that the said consignment has been derived from animals not fed ractopamine and has tested negative by the accredited laboratory for ractopamine residues in full compliance with the Rosselkhoznadzor requirements.
For more information »
Effect of porcine circovirus type 2a or 2b on infection kinetics and pathogenicity of two genetically divergent strains of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in the conventional pig model
To determine differences in infection kinetics of two temporally and genetically different type 2 porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) isolates in vivo with and without concurrent porcine circovirus (PCV) type 2a or 2b infection, 62 pigs were randomly assigned to one of seven groups.
For full story »
Incidence and severity of Arcanobacterium pyogenes injection site abscesses with needle or needle-free injection
Nursery-age pigs (n=198) were used to evaluate the difference in abscess formation at needle-free jet and conventional needle-and-syringe injection sites. Needle-free jet injection was used to administer injections in the neck and ham on one side of the animal whereas needle-and-syringe was used for neck and ham injections on the opposite side. Immediately prior to injection, the injection site surfaces were contaminated with an inoculum of Arcanobacterium pyogenes.
For full story »
Monday, February 4, 2013
Online registration for the 2013 Epi on the Island training courses is now open
There are three consecutive courses being offered this summer, hosted by the Centre for Veterinary Epidemiological Research (CVER) at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island.
1. Introduction to Bayesian Risk Assessment
2. Introduction to Multilevel Modelling
3. Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery - an introductory course with focus on veterinary epidemiology applications
For more information »
Seroepidemiological Survey for Coxiella burnetii Antibodies and Associated Risk Factors in Dutch Livestock Veterinarians
Since 2007, Q fever has become a major public health problem in the Netherlands and goats were the most likely source of the human outbreaks in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Little was known about the consequences of these outbreaks for those professional care providers directly involved. The aim of this survey was to estimate the seroprevalence of antibodies against C. burnetii among Dutch livestock veterinarians and to determine possible risk factors.
For full story »
Transcutaneous vaccination via laser microporation
Driven by constantly increasing knowledge about skin immunology, vaccine delivery via the cutaneous route has recently gained renewed interest. Considering its richness in immunocompetent cells, targeting antigens to the skin is considered to be more effective than intramuscular or subcutaneous injections. However, circumvention of the superficial layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, represents the major challenge for cutaneous immunization.
For full story »
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Antibiotic white paper available
The National Institute for Animal Agriculture has available a white paper, "A One Health Approach to Antimicrobial Use & Resistance: A Dialogue for a Common Purpose," from its 2012 Antimicrobial Use & Resistance Symposium.
The white paper gives a comprehensive look at the information generated by more than a dozen speakers from the animal health, human health, plant health, regulatory, international and other stakeholders in this issue.
Attendees at the conference participated in numerous roundtable discussions to identify issues, problems, goals, objectives and actions. Read the summaries of those discussions.
For more information »
Pennsylvania Game Commission proposes swine eradication steps
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is moving to further combat the state’s feral swine population. Regulations proposed at the commissioners’ quarterly meeting would allow hunters with either a valid hunting or fur-taking license will be eligible to participate in the “unlimited taking” of feral swine.
For full story »
Alopecia areata and humpy-back syndrome in suckling piglets
This report describes an uncommon variant of humpy-back syndrome associated with multiple rib fractures and multisystemic vasculitis in several nursing piglets and, for the first time, a skin disease in swine consistent with alopecia areata. Both conditions were observed concurrently on the farm and occasionally in the same piglets.
For full story »
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Russia: US pork ban is long-term
The ban on pork and beef imports from the United States has been introduced for the long term, due to the absence of any evidences that ractopamine is safe for human health and clearance of the fact that American producers intend to keep using it, Gennady Onishenko. the head of Federal Service on Surveillance for Consumer rights protection and human well-being (Rospotrebnadzor) reported recently.
For more information »
Porcine Circovirus Continues to Impact Productivity at Sub-Clinical Levels
The global technical director with Merck Animal Health says, while vaccines have virtually eliminated death losses from Circovirus, the virus may still be causing productivity losses at sub-clinical levels. Porcine Circovirus was first described in Canada as a cause of disease in the late 1990s and since then it showed up causing disease sporadically until 2004 when the pathogen began causing epidemic losses in Canada and spread world wide. Dr. Francisco De Grau, the global technical director with Merck Animal Health, says new vaccines have been very effective in reducing mortality but the virus may still be impacting productivity.
For full story »
Pre-analytical factors affecting the results of laboratory blood analyses in farm animal veterinary diagnostics
The quality of the laboratory diagnostic approach in farm animals can be severely affected by pre-analytical factors of variation. They induce increase/decrease of biochemical and hematological analyte concentrations and, as a consequence, they may cause unsuitable conclusions and decisions for animal health management and research projects.
For full story »
Thursday, February 7, 2013
US: Researchers awarded millions to study PRRS
A team of researchers at Iowa State University has received a $3 million grant to study genetic resistance to the costly Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) threatening the pork industry and transfer this technology to the industry. The researchers, led by Jack Dekkers, an ISU professor of animal science, will seek to identify genes in pigs that make them less susceptible to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, known as PRRS, a viral disease that costs US pork producers about $664 million a year.
For more information »
Brazil: Ractopamine - safe for use in pork
Animal scientists in Brazil have found that a small dose of the feed additive ractopamine can boost pork production without changing how pork looks or tastes. In the latest issue of the Journal of Animal Science, researchers report that a 5 mg/kg dose of ractopamine increased muscle mass and feed efficiency, and had no noticeable effect on pork marbling, fat content, toughness or color. The researchers came to this conclusion by testing pork from 340 pigs raised under commercial conditions.
For full story »
The natural history of porcine circovirus type 2: From an inoffensive virus to a devastating swine disease?
The present review summarizes the current knowledge on the natural history of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection and its related diseases. The perception about PCV2 as a significant pathogen has markedly changed in the last 15 years. The ubiquitous nature of the virus, the retrospective evidence of this infection long before disease association, the multifactorial aetio-pathogenesis of PCV2-systemic disease (SD) and the lack of consistent demonstration of Koch's postulates caused great controversy about the real causal capabilities of this virus.
For full story »
Friday, February 8, 2013
UK: BPEX offers help to pig producers
BPEX is offering help for pig producers with their cleaning and disinfection (C&D) - made harder now as temperatures rise above zero, thaw sets in and units become muddier. BPEX’s Veterinary projects manager Helen Clarke explains that a consistently high standard of C&D is an effective way to break the on-farm cycle of reinfection with infectious diseases like swine dysentery or salmonella. "A C&D plan should form a major part of a farm’s veterinary health plan," says Clarke. "Although producers know that buildings can become ‘pig sick’ and continued use can bring about a steady decline in health and performance, the reality is that keeping on top of C&D can be challenging."
For more information »
CFIA: Biosecurity for Canadian Dairy Farms National Standard Released
A new biosecurity standard was introduced today that will help dairy farmers protect the health of their herds. "Canadian dairy farmers have been producing wholesome products for our tables for generations," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Farming practices that protect and strengthen animal health are good investments for farmers and bring positive returns to the entire industry."
For full story »
Oral immunization of a live attenuated Escherichia coli strain expressing a holotoxin-structured adhesin-toxoid fusion (1FaeG-FedF-LT(A2):5LT(B)) protected young pigs against enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) infection
ETEC strains expressing K88 (F4) or F18 fimbriae and enterotoxins are the predominant cause of porcine post-weaning diarrhea (PWD). PWD continues causing significant economic losses to swine producers worldwide. Vaccines effectively protecting against PWD are needed.
For full story »
Monday, February 11, 2013
Network aimed at keeping backyard farmers in Va. in loop with threats to their animals
An alert system is being launched in Virginia to ensure noncommercial livestock and poultry owners are kept in the loop when it comes to threats to their animals ranging from disease to acts of terrorism. The Animal Health Network is the product of a partnership between the Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. They’ll also be working with local feed retailers.
For more information »
Evaluating the prevalence of tail biting and carcase condemnations in slaughter pigs in the Republic and Northern Ireland, and the potential of abattoir meat inspection as a welfare surveillance tool
Despite extensive utilisation in epidemiological investigations of animal health, to date there has been little consideration of the value of abattoir meat inspection as a pig welfare surveillance tool. This study measured the prevalence of tail-docking, tail biting, carcase condemnations and associated financial losses of the latter (Northern Ireland only) in 36,963 pigs slaughtered in six abattoirs from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in July and August 2010.
For full story »
Minimising pain in farm animals: the 3S approach - 'Suppress, Substitute, Soothe'
Recently, the French National Institute for Agricultural Research appointed an expert committee to review the issue of pain in food-producing farm animals. To minimise pain, the authors developed a '3S' approach accounting for 'Suppress, Substitute and Soothe' by analogy with the '3Rs' approach of 'Reduction, Refinement and Replacement' applied in the context of animal experimentation.
For full story »
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Colonization of Butchers with Livestock-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Reports have documented colonization of swine in Europe, North America and more recently in China with livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA). Contamination of pig farmers, veterinarians and abattoir workers with these strains has been observed. However, although contamination levels of 10% of retail pork were reported from the Netherlands and Canada, there are limited data of contamination rates of workers handling raw meat.
For more information »
H3N2v and Other Influenza Epidemic Risk Based on Age-Specific Estimates of Sero-Protection and Contact Network Interactions
Cases of a novel swine-origin influenza A(H3N2) variant (H3N2v) have recently been identified in the US, primarily among children. We estimated potential epidemic attack rates (ARs) based on age-specific estimates of sero-susceptibility and social interactions.
For full story »
Tissue mineral concentrations and osteochondrosis lesions in profilic sows across parities 0 through 7
Mortality in swine herds is often associated with lameness, and trace minerals are implicated in maintaining integrity of skeletal tissues. The objectives of this study were to determine if prolific sows displayed evidence of trace mineral depletion with age and to determine the prevalence of osteochondrosis lesions.
For full story »
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Swine virus concerns prompt changes to import requirements
State officials announced today that effective March 1, swine entering Wisconsin must be accompanied by an import permit. To successfully acquire this permit, a veterinarian must disclose the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) status of the herd of origin, if known, with a statement on the certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI). "The value of the genetics of hog breeders in Wisconsin requires that we protect the industry from this devastating disease," said Secretary Ben Brancel. "The first step toward providing this protection is having knowledge of the status of PRRS in the pigs entering the state.".
http://datcp.wi.gov/news/?Id=760
US urges Russia to lift ban imposed over ractopamine
The United States has urged Russia to immediately lift the ban on imports of US meat products imposed due to the presence of the feed additive ractopamine and adopt the Codex standard. Russia imposed the ban on Monday, though it had been on the cards for some time. Ractopamine, a feed additive used as a growth promoter and to make meat leaner, is banned in Russia over human health concerns. However, the UN food safety body, the Codex , Alimentarius Commission, in July said the additive had "no impact on human health" if residue stays within recommended levels.
For full story »
Dietary oil composition differentially modulates intestinal endotoxin transport and postprandial endotoxemia
Intestinal derived endotoxin and the subsequent endotoxemia can be considered major predisposing factors for diseases such as atherosclerosis, sepsis, obesity and diabetes. Dietary fat has been shown to increase postprandial endotoxemia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of different dietary oils on intestinal endotoxin transport and postprandial endotoxemia using swine as a model.
For full story »
Thursday, February 14, 2013
ARC&E Projects Helping Pork Producers Control PRRS Spread
The Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians reports regional efforts to control the spread of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome are showing signs of success. The Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board is coordinating 10 Area Regional Control and Elimination (ARC&E) projects across Canada. Dr. Leigh Rosengren, one of two PRRS Area Regional Control Coordinators, says the goals of these projects range widely with some focusing on eliminating the virus but most are focusing on controlling PRRS and bringing down the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
For full story »
Russia: New wave of ASF outbreaks forecasted
The Russian veterinary watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor recently said that it believed that from the beginning of spring of 2013 African swine fever
(ASF) virus will continue to spread across the country and the new outbreaks of the disease are inevitable. Nikolai Vlasov, deputy head of the Rosselkhoznadzor, added that even despite the temporary absence of the new outbreaks, the ASF virus is not defeated and with the beginning of March he expected the new outbreaks in the South of the country, the Krasnodar region.
For full story »
The blurred border between porcine circovirus type 2-systemic disease and porcine respiratory disease complex
Porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is the name used to describe a clinical presentation characterized by respiratory signs and poor growth in growing-finishing pigs. Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is one of the pathogens potentially involved in the presentation of this complex, although, it has been mainly linked to PCV2-systemic disease (PCV2-SD).
For full story »
Friday, February 15, 2013
Economic Crunch Slows Adoption of Needle-Free Injection Technology
The marketing and technical services manager with AcuShot Needle-Free says the biggest factor limiting the adoption of needle-free injection technology for the administration of veterinary compounds to pigs is the economic pressures facing pork producers. Needle-free injection technology utilizes high pressure and high velocity to blast the compound being administered to the animal through the skin without the need for needles. Mike Agar, the marketing and technical services manager with AcuShot Needle-Free, says the technology offers a range of benefits including reduced risk of transferring infection from one pig to another through needles, reduced pain and stress on the animal and improved food safety but adoption of the technology has been slowed by economic considerations.
For full story »
Horse Meat Find May Mean Other EU Checks Failed, Pig Group Says
The discovery of horse meat in some European beef products may signal that regulators haven’t been vigilant in checking meat supplies for other contaminants, including foot-and-mouth disease, said Richard Longthorp, the chairman of the U.K. National Pig Association. Foot-and-mouth disease, last seen in the U.K. in 2007, is potentially fatal for young animals, and affects livestock including pigs, cattle and goats. Globally, the disease costs an estimated $5 billion annually due to lost production and vaccination efforts, and can also cause reduced milk yields and lower fertility, according to the group. Foot-and-mouth disease doesn’t affect humans.
For full story »
Occupational acquisition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in humans - A description of MRSA carrier and infected cases from the Region of North Jutland in Denmark
Since 2006 in Denmark, there has been a statutory order on physicians'
notification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Occupational cases notified in North Denmark Region in 2008 and 2009 were analysed. Overall, 109 cases (54 females and 55 males) were notified, of whom 56 were infected and 52 cases were carriers, whereas in one case the status was unknown.
For full story »
Monday, February 18, 2013
Clinicopathological Features of Swine Influenza
In this chapter, the clinical presentations, the development of infection and the macroscopic and microscopic lesions of swine influenza virus (SIV) infection are described. Both natural and experimental infections are discussed.
For full story »
New edema vaccine for piglets licensed in Switzerland
A new vaccine against edema disease in piglets has been developed and launched by German vaccine specialists, IDT Biologika. Ecoporc Shiga induces a high level of immunity against shigatoxin, produced by E. coli bacteria which cause edema. The vaccine has been licensed for use in Switzerland and will be marketed there from April by Provet AG, Lyssach. Approval for other European countries is being sought through the EMA (European Medicines Association), London, with a decision expected later this year.
For full story »
Diverse and abundant antibiotic resistance genes in Chinese swine farms
Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are emerging contaminants posing a potential worldwide human health risk. Intensive animal husbandry is believed to be a major contributor to the increased environmental burden of ARGs. Despite the volume of antibiotics used in China, little information is available regarding the corresponding ARGs associated with animal farms.
For full story »
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
New Euthanasia Device for Piglets Now Commercially Available
A new device developed by the University of Guelph to provide humane euthanasia to piglets is now commercially available. The Zepher E, developed at the University of Guelph, is a non-penetrating captive bolt device, used to deliver pain and stress free euthanasia to piglets. Testing of the device, conducted on behalf of the U.S. based National Pork Board and Swine Innovation Porc on 100 neonatal piglets and 150 nursery piglets has shown the device to be 100 percent effective. A commercialized version of the Zepher E is now being manufactured and distributed by Philipsburg, Pennsylvania based Bock Industries. Dr. Tina Widowski, a professor of animal and poultry science and the director of the Campbell Centre for Animal Welfare at the University of Guelph, says testing involved multiple stock people and the response has been positive.
For full story »
Pork Producers Encouraged to Consider Needle-Free Injection Technology
The director of procurement for western Canada with Maple Leaf is encouraging those who supply the company's pork plants with live hogs to consider switching to needle-free administration of medications. Fuelled by concerns over needle fragments in meat there has been considerable media attention recently on the use of needles in swine production and the effectiveness of safeguards in place to ensure pork is free of needle fragments. Jason Manness, Maple Leaf's director of procurement for western Canada, says policies related to needle use have been very effective in addressing concerns over needle fragments in pork.
For full story »
Influence of thermal environment on sows around farrowing and during the lactation period
Our objective was to investigate the effects of floor heating duration (HEAT: 35°c for 12 or 48 h) after birth of first piglet (BFP) under different room temperatures (ROOM: 15°C, 20°C, 25°C) on sows during farrowing and lactation. The study included 8 to 11 repetitions for each combination of ROOM and HEAT.
For full story »
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Strep Suis Identified as Top Reason for Calling Vets to Swine Farms
Information collected through the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network suggests more attention should be paid to Strep suis. Launched on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board in July 2012, the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network allows swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on disease issues developing in their regions. In the network's latest quarterly review, Streptococcus suis and other strep infections have been identified as one of main the reasons veterinarians were called to farms.
For full story »
Bayesian analysis of risk factors for infection with a genotype of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in Ontario swine herds using monitoring data
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) has a worldwide distribution. This economically important endemic disease causes reproductive failure in breeding stock and respiratory tract illness in young pigs. In Ontario restricted fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) 1-18-4 has been determined as one of the most common virus genotypes. Individual-level models (ILMs) for infectious diseases, fitted in a Bayesian MCMC framework, have been used to describe both the spatial and temporal spread of diseases.
For full story »
In vitro antiviral activity of fluoroquinolones against African swine fever virus
African swine fever (ASF) is a viral swine disease against which neither an effective vaccine nor a treatment is available. The antiviral effect of thirty fluoroquinolones on the infectivity of African swine fever virus (ASFV) was screened in vitro. There was a severe reduction of the cytopathic effect in ASFV-infected Vero cells when exposed to six independent fluoroquinolones, or to some of their combinations, from an early phase of infection.
For full story »
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Salmonella control along pig production chain
An article published by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University in Belgium, titled ‘Salmonella control in live pigs and at slaughter’ looked at the most important control measures in the primary phase of pig production as well as during transport, lairage and along the slaughter line. As European Union legislation sets reduction targets to lower the incidence of human salmonellosis, Member States are obliged to take effective measures to control Salmonella infection and contamination along the pig production chain.
For full story »
China seeks extra testing of U.S. pork for feed additive
China wants a third party to verify beginning March 1 that U.S. pork shipped to the country is free of a feed additive used to promote lean muscle growth, a U.S. Meat Export Federation spokesman told Reuters.The reasons for China's timing and motives for additional verification on the ractopamine additive were unclear, but stirred speculation ranging from a political agenda to protection of that country's pork industry.
For full story »
Effects of trailer design on animal welfare parameters and carcass and meat quality of three Pietrain crosses being transported over a long distance
This study aimed at evaluating the effects of trailer design on stress responses and meat quality traits of 3 different pig crosses: 50% Pietrain breeding with halothane (HAL)(Nn) (50Nn); 50% Pietrain breeding with HAL(NN) (50NN); and 25% Pietrain breeding with HAL(NN) genotype (25NN).
For full story »
Friday, February 22, 2013
Pleurisy costing pig producers
Pleurisy is costing producers at least 75p per affected pig in processing costs alone and the incidence of the complaint is increasing. This worrying trend has been detected in both BPEX Pig Health Scheme (BPHS) and Collection and Communication of Inspection Results (CCIR) reports, and abattoirs are reporting up to 15% of the kill being severely affected. The cost is incurred when slaughter line speeds are slowed to deal with the additional dressing requirements of affected carcasses.
For full story »
Half-life of porcine antibodies absorbed from a colostrum supplement containing porcine immunoglobulins
Absorption of immunoglobulins (Ig) at birth from colostrum is essential for piglet survival. The objective was to evaluate the half-life of antibodies absorbed in the bloodstream of newborn piglets orally fed a colostrum supplement (CS) containing energy (fat and carbohydrates) and IgG from porcine plasma.
For full story »
Stochastic spatio-temporal modelling of African swine fever spread in the European Union during the high risk period
African swine fever (ASF) is a notifiable viral pig disease with high mortality and serious socio-economic consequences. Since ASF emerged in Georgia in 2007 the disease has spread to several neighbouring countries and cases have been detected in areas bordering the European Union (EU). It is uncertain how fast the virus would be able to spread within the unrestricted European trading area if it were introduced into the EU.
For full story »
Monday, February 25, 2013
Prevalence and genetic heterogeneity of porcine group C rotaviruses in nursing and weaned piglets in Ohio, USA and identification of a potential new VP4 genotype
Swine fecal samples collected from seven farms were screened for group C rotaviruses (RVCs) using a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay. A total of 380 samples were tested and 19.5% were positive. Of the 128 samples collected in 2012, 23.5% from nursing piglets and 8.5% from weaned piglets were RVC positive, with a higher RVC frequency in diarrheic (28.4%) than in non-diarrheic (6.6%) piglets.
For full story »
Longitudinal evaluation of three commercial diagnostic assays for Lawsonia intracellularis infection in swine
Ileitis is an intestinal disease of swine commonly caused by Lawsonia intracellularis. Clinical signs range from bloody diarrhoea with sudden death to intermittent diarrhoea and retarded growth. Our study compared two serological and one antigen-based commercial diagnostic assay for the detection of L intracellularis infection in live animals: the bioScreen Ileitis Antibody ELISA (antibody ELISA), the Elanco IFAT IleiTest (immunofluorescent IgG detection) and the Elanco FIRSTtest (antigen ELISA).
For full story »
Effect of wheat distillers dried grains with solubles or sugar beet pulp on prevalence of Salmonella enterica Typhimurium in weaned pigs
Salmonella enterica Typhimurium (ST) is of concern in the swine industry with relevance for animal health and consumer safety.
Nutritional strategies might help to reduce ST infection and transmission. This study examined the potential of wheat (Triticumaestivum) distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) pulp (SBP) to alter intestinal microbial communities and ST shedding using a Trojan model.
For full story »
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
China not yet demanding pledge Canada pork is ractopamine free
China is not yet requiring a third-party review of Canadian pork imports to ensure they are free of the feed additive ractopamine, Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz said on Monday. But Ritz said he expects China to require third-party verification of Canadian pork at some point, as it will require of U.S. pork shipments starting March 1.
For full story »
CSHB Optimistic Mandate Will Continue Beyond March
The Canadian Swine Health Board is optimistic the effort to reduce the risk of disease impacting Canada's swine herd will receive the funding necessary to allow it to continue.
The Canadian Swine Health Board was formed in 2009 with funding provided by the federal government to help respond to a porcine circovirus epidemic and to take the lead in developing strategies to prepare for future emerging diseases.
With the original federal funding agreement due to expire at the end of March efforts are underway to develop a new funding arrangement that will allow the work to continue. Canadian Swine Health Board Chair Florian Possberg reports the provincial pork organizations have agreed to a levy which will provide some funding, other industry players have indicated they are willing to consider participation and the federal government is being asked to reallocate money previously committed.
For full story »
Surveillance of Bungowannah Pestivirus in the Upper Midwestern USA
Pestiviruses, a genetically and antigenically highly diverse group, include one of the most historically significant swine pathogens, that is, classical swine fever virus. In Australia, investigations into swine outbreaks characterized by neonatal mortality, stillbirths and mummified foetuses resulted in the discovery of a new pestivirus, Bungowannah virus. This finding raised the possibility that Bungowannah virus, or a variant thereof, was circulating in swine herds elsewhere in the World.
For full story »
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Vaccine development for protecting swine against influenza virus
Influenza virus infects a wide variety of species including humans, pigs, horses, sea mammals and birds. Weight loss caused by influenza infection and/or co-infection with other infectious agents results in significant financial loss in swine herds. The emergence of pandemic H1N1 (A/CA/04/2009/H1N1) and H3N2 variant (H3N2v) viruses, which cause disease in both humans and livestock constitutes a concerning public health threat.
For full story »
Post-farrowing stress management in sows by administration of
azaperone: effects on piglets performance
This study examined the impact of a single dose of azaperone administered to sows at the end of farrowing on piglet weight gain and mortality during the lactation period. Two hundred fifty-two sows (JSR hybrid) housed in a conventional farrowing crate system were assigned to either a treatment or a control group.
For full story »
HoBi-like viruses: an emerging group of pestiviruses
The genus Pestivirus is composed of 4 important pathogens of livestock: Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 and 2 (BVDV-1 and BVDV-2), Classical swine fever virus (CSFV), and Border disease virus of sheep (BDV). BVDV are major pathogens of cattle, and infection results in significant economic loss worldwide.
For full story »
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Smithfield Foods meets ractopamine-free pork demand
Smithfield Foods, Inc. said that the company is well positioned to meet rising demand for ractopamine-free pork, following recent announcements that China and Russia will require third party certification that pork exports are ractopamine-free.
For full story »
Discussing the Future of PRRS
Recently, the National Pork Board (NPB) facilitated a meeting of North American pork industry researchers, pharmaceutical and biological company representatives, veterinarians and diagnosticians to discuss the future of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in swine production, according to a report from Harry Snelson, DVM, American Association of Swine Veterinarians. The intent of this meeting was to develop a roadmap for future activities for PRRS to include:
- Identifying key areas of focus for PRRS,
- Identifying and outlining current activities of stakeholders, and
- Creating a roadmap to assist in filling gaps in the knowledge and management of the PRRS virus.
For full story »
Attenuation of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus by molecular breeding of virus envelope genes from genetically divergent strains
Molecular breeding via DNA shuffling can direct the evolution of viruses with desired traits. By using a positive-strand RNA virus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), as a model, rapid attenuation of the virus was achieved in this study by DNA shuffling of the viral envelope genes from multiple strains.
For full story »
Friday, March 1, 2013
Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network Data Sheds New Light on Strep Suis
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports data collected through the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network is shedding new light on a common infection that affects swine herds. Data collected through the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network has identified a seasonal increase in the number of pigs being infected by Strep suis. Dr. Dan Hurnik, the chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board's Long Term Disease Risk Management Committee and a member of the faculty of the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, says Strep suis is a common bacteria found on healthy pigs as well as pigs that have problems.
For full story »
China confirms two Foot-and-Mouth Disease cases
Two outbreaks of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) have been discovered in China’s southern province Guangdong and south western Tibet Autonomous Region. The Ministry of Agriculture have stated that 88 pigs in Guangdong were found to have been affected by FMD. While 13 cattle in the Tibet Autonomous Region were found to have FMD symptoms, discovered by farmers.
For full story »
Emergence and characterisation of pandemic H1N1 influenza viruses in Hungarian swine herds
In 2010, two novel porcine H1N1 influenza viruses were isolated from pigs with influenza-like illness in Hungarian swine herds. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of these strains revealed that they shared molecular features with the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus strains, which emerged globally during 2009. The PB2, HA and NA genes contained unique amino acid changes compared to the available new H1N1 influenza virus sequences of pig origin.
For full story »
Monday, March 4, 2013
Pork Producers Recognise Value of Cooperation in Reducing Risk of Disease Spread
A PRRS Area Regional Control Coordinator with the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians says Canada's pork producers are recognizing the value of working together to help reduce the spread of disease within their industry. The Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians in partnership with the Canadian Swine Health Board is coordinating 10 area regional control and elimination or ARC and E projects across Canada. Dr. Leigh Rosengren, one of two PRRS Area Regional Control Coordinators, says these projects have done an excellent job of building awareness, producers have gained a strong understanding of the biology of the virus, the ways their herd can become infected and how to minimize that risk.
For full story »
World Health Organisation (WHO), Surveillance and Monitoring - Influenza Update
Influenza activity in North America continued to decrease overall, though activity remained high in some areas. The proportion of influenza B increased slightly, but influenza A(H3N2) was still the most commonly detected virus subtype. The season has been more severe than average in the United States of America, with notably high number of pneumonia and influenza-related hospitalizations among adults aged 65 years and older.
For full story »
Genomic sequence and virulence comparison of four Type 2 porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus strains
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a ubiquitous and costly virus that exhibits substantial sequence and virulence disparity among diverse isolates. In this study, we compared the whole genomic sequence and virulence of 4 Type 2 PRRSV isolates. Among the 4 isolates, SDSU73, MN184, and NADC30 were all clearly more virulent than NADC31, and among the 3 more virulent isolates, there were subtle differences based on viral replication, lung lesions, lymphadenopathy, febrile response, decreased weight gains, and cytokine responses in the lung.
For full story »
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Pig Code of Practice Update On Target for June 1 Release
The chair of the National Farm Animal Care Council's Pig Code Development Committee reports the effort to complete a draft updated Pig Code of Practice for public release by June 1 is on target. The National Farm Animal Care Council's Pig Code Development Committee, made up of pork producers, practicing veterinarians, swine researchers and representatives of government and animal welfare organizations, is drafting a revised Pig Code of Practice. Pig Code Development Committee chair Florian Possberg says the committee has addressed a broad range of issues but the three key areas of focus have included space allowance for animals, the use of gestation stalls for sows and pain control for painful procedures.
For full story »
Bill would increase monitoring of antibiotic use in animals
Congressmen Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) and Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.) have introduced legislation that would require more information be submitted to health regulators on the use of antibiotics given to animals raised for human consumption. H.R. 820, called the Delivering Antimicrobial Transparency in Animals (DATA) Act, would require drug manufacturers to provide better information to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on how their antimicrobial drugs are used in food-producing animals.
For full story »
Homologous whole bacterin vaccination is not able to reduce Streptococcus suis serotype 9 strain 7997 transmission among pigs or colonization
Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is an important porcine pathogen worldwide, and antibiotics are often applied to treat or prevent clinical signs. Vaccination could be an alternative measure to reduce the abundant use of antimicrobials. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vaccination with homologues whole bacterin vaccine containing S. suis serotype 9 strain 7997 on transmission of this serotype among pigs and on mucosal colonization. Caesarean derived, colostrum deprived pigs (N=50) were housed pair wise.
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Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Work with your veterinarian on drug protocols
Food production animals get sick and it is the natural inclination of farmers as well as veterinarians to want to do whatever is possible to help that animal get better. That is why it is easy to reach for an antibiotic and why, if the animal is not responding to that antibiotic, to switch to another. However, what is easy and seems natural may not be best. Antibiotic use in food animals has come under increased scrutiny as concerns have risen about antibiotic residues and about antimicrobial resistance. For these reasons, antibiotic use needs to be intentional and organized on farms.
For full story »
Interest in Needle-Free Injection Expected to Build as Awareness of Successes Builds
The marketing and technical services manager with AcuShot Needle-Free is confident that, as pork producers see the benefits of eliminating needles, interest in needle-free injection will build. Needle-free injection technology utilizes high pressure and high velocity to blast the compound being administered to the animal through the skin without the need for needles. Mike Agar, the marketing and technical services manager with AcuShot Needle-Free, says the economic down turn that has impacted the pork industry has slowed the adoption of the technology but he's confident, as producers see the benefits and concerns over animal welfare and food safety become more important, interest in needle-free will grow.
For full story »
Meta-analytical study of productive and nutritional interactions of mycotoxins in growing pigs
A meta-analysis was carried out in order to study the association of mycotoxins with performance and organ weights in growing pigs. A total of 85 articles published between 1968 and 2010 were used, totaling 1012 treatments and 13 196 animals.
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Thursday, March 7, 2013
To promote animal welfare on modern farms, 12 veterinarians from 10 states host film crews
In new YouTube videos released today, swine veterinarians Dr. Matthew Turner of North Carolina and Dr. Tara Donovan of Wisconsin join veterinarians and farmers from across the country in speaking out for responsible livestock farming by hosting a film crew to document their work. They are among 12 veterinarians who demonstrate modern animal wellness practices on dozens of U.S. farms and ranches in the YouTube reality series "Veterinarians On Call," www.youtube.com/vetsoncall.
For full story »
Syndromic surveillance - a key to disease monitoring
Humans animals, plants, insects, bacteria and viruses that may never have left one geographic area for another are now moving every day around the world. This movement can cause animal health syndromes that may not have been seen in some areas, or isolated cases may not be connected to other cases that have occurred elsewhere. Lindsey Holstrom, DVM, uses an iPad to record health and surveillance data for the syndromic surveillance program. But that’s changing. A unique program is being piloted in the states of New Mexico and Texas that is equipping practitioners with tools for reporting a variety of animal health conditions and then relaying that information, analyzing it and reporting it in near real-time.
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An assessment of the breeding maturity of insemination boars based on ejaculate quality changes
We examined the sexual development and insemination capability of boars representing five breeds used at Polish sow insemination stations. The speed of attaining full breeding maturity by the boars and their insemination usefulness was assessed based on the results of experiments analysing age-related changes in the physical characteristics of the ejaculates.
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Friday, March 8, 2013
Veterinary Oversight of Antimicrobial Use in Livestock: Impact on Stakeholders; Public Meetings; Request for Comments
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing plans for five meetings to provide an opportunity for public dialogue and feedback on challenges faced by the animal agriculture industry and practicing veterinarians as FDA implements its initiative for the judicious use of medically important antimicrobials in medicated feed or drinking water of food-producing animals. Particular emphasis will be placed on challenges faced by animal producers in areas that may lack access to adequate veterinary services.
For full story »
U.S. meat, trade officials detail cost of ‘non-science-based’
ractopamine bans
U.S. meat and trade officials are pressing Russia, China and Taiwan to change their stances against the use of beta agonists such as ractopamine in beef and pork while detailing the costs of their respective restrictions. The U.S. Meat Export Federation on Monday issued a release outlining the costs and difficulties to the U.S. beef and pork industries presented by recent ractopamine bans by leading export markets Russia and China. USMEF’s comments followed a trade report released Friday by the U.S. Trade Representative’s office that called Taiwan out on its position against the leanness enhancing feed additive ahead of bilateral talks with that country.
For full story »
Current evidence for human yersiniosis in Ireland
Yersiniosis associated with abdominal pain was commonly reported in Ireland in the 1980s. However, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) currently records only three to seven notified cases of yersiniosis per year. The most common cause of yersiniosis worldwide is Yersinia enterocolitica, and the leading source for this organism is consumption of pork-based food products. In contrast to the apparent current scarcity of yersiniosis cases in humans in Ireland, pathogenic Y. enterocolitica are detectable in a high percentages of pigs.
For full story »
Monday, March 11, 2013
Streptococcus suis Meningitis in Swine Worker, Minnesota, USA
Streptococcus suis is a major bacterial pathogen in swine worldwide.
Historically, cases in humans have occurred sporadically, mostly in Asia. However, an outbreak in China involved 215 human cases and
39 deaths. Only 3 human cases of S. suis disease were documented in the United States before 2011: 2 domestically acquired cases in New York and Hawaii, and 1 case in a person in California who was probably exposed in the Philippines. We describe a case of S. suis disease in a swine worker in Minnesota, USA. The case-patient was a previously healthy 60-year-old man (truck driver). On December 14, 2011, severe headache and chills developed, which he attributed to the onset of influenza. He had a history of migraine headaches, and used prescription medications to treat his headache. However, on December 15, he awoke with a severe headache that was unresponsive to treatment. Despite having to stop his truck several times because of the severe headache, he successfully completed his delivery route.
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Virulence factors of Haemophilus parasuis identified
Researchers of the CReSA have demonstrated that two trimeric autotransporters of Haemophilus parasuis are surface-exposed proteins that are involved in resistance to phagocytosis. These properties make these proteins promising vaccine candidates against Glässer’s disease. Haemophilus parasuis is a member of the family Pasteurellaceae and a common inhabitant of the upper respiratory tract of healthy pigs. It is also known as the etiological agent of Glässer’s disease in swine, a systemic disease characterized by fibrinous polyserosytis, which causes high morbidity and mortality in piglets. H. parasuis can also produce pneumonia and sudden death. Glässer’s disease has gained considerable importance in recent years and it is recognized as one of the main causes of economic loss in the pig industry.
For full story »
Using Routine Surveillance Data to Estimate the Epidemic Potential of Emerging Zoonoses: Application to the Emergence of US Swine Origin Influenza A H3N2v Virus
We have developed a simple approach with limited data requirements that enables robust assessment of the risks posed by emerging zoonoses. We illustrate this by deriving transmissibility estimates for the H3N2v-M virus, an important step in evaluating the possible pandemic threat posed by this virus.
For full story »
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Russia’s fight against ASF reveals lack of education
African Swine Fever outbreaks in 2012 have been the worst yet in Russia, with over half a million pigs having fallen victim to the disease and subsequently culled. It is hard to pinpoint causes, but lack of biosecurity knowledge appears to be part of the problem. Since the beginning of 2012, 59 outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) have been reported in seven regions of the country. Krasnodar region (24 outbreaks) tops the list, followed by Tver region (20) and Volgograd region (11). The list is completed by several cases in the Republic of Karelia as well as in the Kalmykia, Rostov and Yaroslavl regions.
For full story »
New Zealand: Worried about Foot-and-Mouth Disease
New Zealand has expressed major concerns over the entry of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) into the country. It is worried that Illegal meat will bring about an outbreak of FMD.
New Zealand is not prepared to deal with an outbreak of FMD according to reports. An outbreak would cost about "$8 billion in the first year and $13 billion in the second. An outbreak of foot and mouth would be disastrous for our economy," said Labour leader David Shearer.
For full story »
Evaluation of the risk of classical swine fever (CSF) spread from backyard pigs to other domestic pigs by using the spatial stochastic disease spread model Be-FAST: The example of Bulgaria
The study presented here is one of the very first aimed at exploring the potential spread of classical swine fever (CSF) from backyard pigs to other domestic pigs. Specifically, we used a spatial stochastic spread model, called Be-FAST, to evaluate the potential spread of CSF virus (CSFV) in Bulgaria, which holds a large number of backyards (96% of the total number of pig farms) and is one of the very few countries for which backyard pigs and farm counts are available.
For full story »
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Undiagnosed Deaths, Porcine - China: (Zhejiang, Jiangsu) Request For Information
Another 300 or so dead pigs were retrieved from a creek in Songjiang District yesterday morning [10 Mar 2013], making the total number of dead pigs removed from the creek more than 1,200 since last Friday. The Songjiang District government said it has strengthened patrols on Hengliaojing Creek upstream in Zhejiang Province and found many floating carcasses. The district doubled the number of boats removing carcasses.
For full story »
New ASF outbreak reported in the Tver region
A new outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) has been recently discovered among wild boars on the hunting territory of Sholokhovskoe in the Tver region, according to a report by the Russian veterinary watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor. "Genetic material of the ASF virus was identified during a study conducted by Tver Interregional Veterinary Laboratory of samples of pathological material selected from a wild boar that had been shot in Sholokhovskoe in Rzhev area of the Tver," the report stated.
For full story »
Role of vaccination in animal health
According to the IFAH, veterinary vaccines currently account for 26% of the global market in veterinary medicines, reflecting the importance of vaccines in animal health, as well as the number of wild and domesticated target species, and the monospecific nature of most vaccines. Multispecies vaccines include tetanus and rabies.
For full story »
Thursday, March 14, 2013
CSHIN Swine Disease Surveillance Software Offers Veterinarians Additional Management Functions
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network says software being used to allow swine veterinarians across Canada to share information on emerging swine disease trends offers a range of additional management options. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, a Canadian Swine Health Board initiative, enables swine veterinarians to share information on disease issues developing in their regions.
For full story »
FDA to meet with food-animal producers, veterinarians
The US Food and Drug Administration announced a series of five meetings to provide the public with opportunities to discuss and provide critical feedback on the challenges faced by livestock producers and veterinarians as FDA phases in veterinary oversight of the therapeutic use of certain medically important antimicrobials. FDA is seeking input as it moves forward to further develop and implement its strategy to promote the judicious use in food-producing animals of antibiotics that are important in treating humans. The meetings are intended to provide a forum to discuss potential challenges faced by animal producers in areas that may lack access to adequate veterinary services and to explore possible options for minimizing adverse impacts. The meetings are jointly sponsored by FDA and the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
For full story »
Evidence of Cross-Reactive Immunity to 2009 Pandemic Influenza A Virus in Workers Seropositive to Swine H1N1 Influenza Viruses Circulating in Italy
A significant increase of H1N1pdm seroprevalences occurred in the post-pandemic peak subperiod in the Cs (p<0.001) whereas SWs showed no differences between the two subperiods, suggesting a possible occurrence of cross-protective immunity related to previous swH1N1 infections. These data underline the importance of risk assessment and occupational health surveillance activities aimed at early detection and control of SIVs with pandemic potential in humans.
For full story »
Friday, March 15, 2013
Ukraine bans import of Brazilian pork
Ukraine authorities have recently announced a temporary ban on the import of animal products from Brazilian company Alibem comercial de alimentos Ltd. According to Ukraine State veterinary and Phytosanitary service (Gosvetphitosluzba) the company was among the largest Brazilian supplies of pork to Ukraine.
For full story »
Research Shows Rubber Mats Stimulates Increased Exercise Among Group Housed Sows
Research conducted at the Prairie Swine Centre suggests the use of rubber mats in group sow housing systems improves comfort and stimulates increased exercise. As part of a study intended to encourage greater use of free space among group housed sows researchers tracked the behavior of 16 groups of high parity sows or low parity sows and gilts housed in walk-in lock-in stall pens at the Prairie Swine Centre's research barn in Floral, Saskatoon. Dr.
Jennifer Brown, a research scientist ethology, explains groups were housed in "I" or "T" pen configurations on concrete flooring or on concrete flooring covered or partially covered by rubber mats.
For full story »
Pathogens of Interest to the Pork Industry: A Review of Research on Interventions to Assure Food Safety
Pork is the most consumed meat in the world and is a source of foodborne diseases. To develop effective food safety interventions for pork, it is crucial to understand the nature of the important pathogens affecting the pork industry, their prevalence at different phases of pork production, and interventions against pathogens in pork. The purpose of this study was to outline the significance of Salmonella, Campylobacter, Trichinella spiralis, Toxoplasma gondii, Listeria monocytogenes, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to the pork industry.
For full story »
Monday, March 18, 2013
Improper disposal of diseased pigs troubles Chinese province
In China's Zhejiang province, authorities have thus far fished thousands of pig carcasses out of a river. Separately, a court in the region sentenced 46 people to jail for selling meat from sick pigs. A pig farm in the province's Jiaxing City has confessed to dumping dead pigs into the Huangpu River, which supplies water to Shanghai and its 23 million residents. Authorities have recovered more than 6,600 carcasses from the river, according to Shanghai Daily. Xinhua news agency reported that the water supply is safe and officials are prepared to add disinfectants and activated carbon in the event of contamination.
For full story »
Hurd responds to anti-antibiotic editorial
As a veterinarian and an Iowa State professor who is concerned about antibiotic resistance for over 30 years, and a former U.S. Deputy Under Secretary of USDA’s Office of Food Safety, I want to include some relevant facts in response to the Des Moines Register’s editorial published on March 3rd. We are all concerned about the adaptability of bacteria and their ability to develop resistance. You see, antibiotic resistance has been documented to have existed for at least four million years. So clearly, resistance has not developed due to modern animal agriculture.
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Prolonged duration of farrowing is associated with subsequent decreased fertility in sows
In modern swine production failure of sows to become pregnant within the expected time after weaning results in major economic loss and culling of sows. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of duration of farrowing on subsequent repeat breeding rate.
The study was performed in a commercial sow-pool piggery system in Finland comprising 148 sows (Yorkshire × Landrace).
For full story »
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
CSHB Initiative Helps Address Shortage of Swine Health Researchers
The Canadian Swine Health Board reports a program under which Post Doctoral Fellows were placed within swine health research institutions across Canada to help address a shortage of swine health researchers has been highly successful. Approximately three years ago, to bolster the renewal of manpower within the swine health industry, the Canadian Swine Health Board funded the placement of Post Doctoral Fellows, young scientists who have recently completed their Ph.D. programs, into three year positions at the Universities of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Guelph, Montreal, and Prince Edward Island and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization. Canadian Swine Health Board research coordinator Dr. Al Theede says the work has been diverse and has included tissue culture models for Porcine Circovirus and PRRS, work on PRRS virus transmission and how it spreads, work on emerging diseases such as Brachyspira and work on the genetic impact of disease resistance.
For full story »
Russia: ASF outbreaks continue
Two new outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) have been recently reported in Russia in the wild nature, said the message of Russian veterinary watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor. One outbreak has been revealed in the Tver region, while the other one in the Tula region. "During the study of the All-Russian Research Institute of Veterinary Virology and Microbiology, samples of pathological material selected from the carcass of the dead boar found in Sarmanto, Venevsky district, genetic material of ASF was identified, (ASF) according to a Rosselkhoznadzor report.
For full story »
Tetracycline-resistant Chlamydia suis in cases of reproductive failure on Belgian, Cypriote and Israeli pig production farms
Similar cases of severe reproductive failure associated with the presence of Chlamydia suis in two Belgian, one Cypriote and one Israeli pig farrowing to slaughter farms are presented. Vaginal and rectal swabs from 39 sows were examined by culture and DNA microarray. Nineteen of 23 (83?%) C. suis-positive sows were infected with tetracycline-resistant C. suis strains, as determined by MIC tests.
Furthermore, boar semen from a German artificial insemination centre, intended for export, was positive for C. suis. Emergence of tetracycline-resistant C. suis strains was confirmed.
For full story »
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Pig farmers lose pork import battle
Pig farmers have failed in their legal bid to overturn a government decision allowing raw pork imports from countries with Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). The disease, also known as blue-ear pig disease, causes still-born piglets and respiratory illnesses in young pigs. It costs the US swine industry more than $US600 million ($NZ729m) a year, according to the nationalhogfarmer.com website.
For full story »
Water Sprinkling Shown Effective in Reducing Death Loss From Heat Stress
Research conducted in Ontario has shown pork producers can reduce
their risk of death loss during the hot summer months by using water
sprinkling during transport. Researchers with Agriculture and
Agri-Food Canada, the University of Guelph and the Prairie Swine
Centre on behalf of Swine Innovation Porc looked at the use of water
sprinkling in the trucks that haul hogs to market in reducing the heat
stress that can occur in the summer. Trucks were fitted with
sprinkling systems that could be hooked to an external hose, pigs were
sprinkled just before leaving the farm, driven for two hours to the
packing plant and were sprinkled again just before unloading. Dr.
Jennifer Brown, a research scientist ethology, with the Prairie Swine
Centre, says with the high levels of humidity and heat in the summer
we see a big increase in over heating of pigs and potential death
loss, especially in the east were they have shorter travel times and
sometimes slower traffic speeds.
For full story »
Emerging and exotic zoonotic disease preparedness and response in the United States - coordination of the animal health component
For the response to a zoonotic disease outbreak to be effective,
animal health authorities and disease specialists must be involved.
Animal health measures are commonly directed at known diseases that
threaten the health of animals and impact owners. The measures have
long been applied to zoonotic diseases, including tuberculosis and
brucellosis, and can be applied to emerging diseases. One Health
(veterinary, public, wildlife and environmental health) and
all-hazards preparedness work have done much to aid interdisciplinary
understanding and planning for zoonotic diseases, although further
improvements are needed.
For full story »
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Introduction of New Euthanasia Device Considered Timely
The director of the University of Guelph's Campbell Centre for Animal Welfare says the introduction of a commercialized version of a new device designed to deliver euthanasia to piglets has come at a good time. The Zephyr E is a non-penetrating captive bolt device developed at the University of Guelph to deliver pain and stress free euthanasia to piglets. Testing of a prototype version, conducted on behalf of the U.S. based National Pork Board and Swine Innovation Porc, on 100 neonatal piglets and 150 nursery piglets showed the device to be 100 percent effective.
For full story »
$1 million pilot project aims to take out feral pigs
Using the cover of darkness, feral pigs have learned to outsmart eventhe most seasoned hunters as they set about on their nightly terrors, rooting up crops and suburban gardens, harassing native wildlife and turning watering holes into pigsties. The invasive porkers have made themselves at home across more than three quarters of the U.S. and are responsible for an estimated $1.5 billion in damages each year. Most worrisome is their ability to learn from each encounter with a frustrated human.
For full story »
Dietary supplementation with proline confers a positive effect in both porcine circovirus-infected pregnant and non-pregnant mice
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is associated with various diseases that impose a significant economic burden on the swine industry. We hypothesised that nutritional supplementation with proline to enhance the immune response might be a useful prophylactic measure against PCV2 infection.
For full story »
Friday, March 22, 2013
Ontario Medical Association looking for limits on antibiotics in livestock
The Ontario Medical Association wants the federal and provincial governments to crack down on antibiotic use in farming. The organization is issuing a call to arms on the problem of antibiotic resistance, warning the world is in danger of losing these drugs because of misuse. A policy paper drafted by the OMA says Ontario should ban the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in food animal production.
For full story »
APHIS may change swine disease programs
A proposal from federal animal health officials would have states develop swine health plans as part of a national program to combat brucellosis and pseudorabies. Officials with the Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seeking comments on the document, which proposes combining the federal swine pseudorabies and brucellosis programs. Information provided by APHIS spokeswoman Workabeba Yigzaw describes the document as a regulatory concept paper.
For full story »
Zinc as an agent for the prevention of biofilm formation by pathogenic bacteria
Zinc used at non-bactericidal concentrations can inhibit biofilm formation by several Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial swine pathogens.The antibiofilm activity of zinc could provide a tool to fight biofilms and the non-specific inhibitory effect may well extend to other important human and animal bacterial pathogens.
For full story »
Monday, March 25, 2013
Comparison of PRRS effect on performance in US and Denmark
It is uncommon for two pieces of valuable information to come out at more or less at the same time, so one is bound to make a comparison. The data has not been collected in the same way but appears to be robust. So what are the differences between US PRRS and EU PRRS? A paper by Kristensen and Vinther (2013) from Denmark, reviewed the effects on performance of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus on breeder and finisher herds by comparing herds recorded as PRRS negative and PRRS positive in their specific-pathogen free (SPF) system. The survey involved 451 breeding herds, 375 nurseries and 273 finisher herds. The data presented here was for 2011 only but it was very similar to the previous year. In Denmark they have the EU strains and US vaccine strains circulating .
For full story »
Wild Boar Shot for African Swine Fever Tests in Tver
Tests taken of samples from wild boar shot in the hunting region of Tver by the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Veterinary Virology and Microbiology found them to contain genetic material of African Swine Fever. Tests also reveals the disease on the Venevskaya hunting area in the Venevsky district of Tula.
For full story »
Fungal contamination in Swine: a potential occupational health threat
Poor air quality in a pig-confinement building may potentially place farmers at higher health risk than other workers for exposure to airborne pollutants that may reach infectious levels. The aim of this study was to assess worker exposure to fungi in indoor environments in Portuguese swine buildings. Air samples from 7 swine farms were collected at a flow rate of 140 L/min, at 1 m height, onto malt extract agar supplemented with chloramphenicol (MEA).
For full story »
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Blue ear, bird flu outbreaks in some provinces in Vietnam
Three districts in the central province of Nghe An have reported that some 383 pigs have died of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV), also called blue ear disease. The disease has already wiped out herds in Dien Kim and Dien Thai Communes of Dien Chau District, Quynh Thach, Quynh Van and Quynh Xuan Communes in Quynh Luu District and five communes in Yen Thanh District.
For full story »
UK: Swine dysentery elimination a priority
The BPEX Pig Health Improvement Project (PHIP) is focusing this year’s activity on the elimination of swine dysentery. Pig producers have asked for this for two main reasons. Firstly, it is one of the most economically damaging infections a herd can contract and it can spread rapidly through a herd via faeces. Pigs with dysentery can deteriorate in condition very quickly, with severe cases leading to death. The other reason is that, despite its virulence, control methods are relatively straight forward and simple measures can be taken to protect against reinfection. BPEX’s Veterinary Projects Manager Helen Clarke states that, if everyone follows the same simple principles, we can make huge progress towards eliminating swine dysentery regionally and nationally .
For full story »
In Vitro Susceptibility of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae Field Isolates and Occurrence of Fluoroquinolone, Macrolides and Lincomycin Resistance
A total of 159 Thai isolates of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae isolated from pneumonic lungs of pigs during 2006-2011 were investigated for their in vitro susceptibility to 12 antimicrobial agents. Low activity of chlortetracycline was indicated by the MIC range from 3.12-100 mcg/ml and MIC90 of 50 mcg/ml.
For full story »
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
ASF suspected at a Cherkizovo pig farm
Russia's Veterinary and Phyto-Sanitary Surveillance Service (Rosselhoznadzor) last week (March, 22) reported suspected outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) at Cherkizovo units, while the meat producer said independent tests had come back clean. Genetic material from the ASF pathogen were identified, this month, in samples from pigs supplied to a meat processing plant in the Penza region, according to Rosselhoznadzor.
For full story »
Latest pleurisy costs factsheet now published
An updated BPEX factsheet which covers pleurisy in pigs has now been published, including latest figures on what the condition costs producers and processors. Pleurisy is costing producers around 75p per affected pig in processing costs alone and the incidence of the complaint is increasing. Pleurisy also stunts the growth and performance of pigs and BPEX estimates the total cost could be as high as £3.72 for each pig slaughtered, for a typical batch where 10% of pigs have pleurisy.
For full story »
Identification of chromosomal locations associated with tail biting and being a victim of tail-biting behaviour in the domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus)
The objective of this study was to identify loci associated with tail biting or being a victim of tail biting in Norwegian crossbred pigs using a genome-wide association study with PLINK case-control analysis. DNA was extracted from hair or blood samples collected from 98 trios of crossbred pigs located across Norway.
For full story »
Thursday, March 28, 2013
CPC Statement on the Release of the 2013 Federal Budget
The Federal Budget released by the Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty on Thursday afternoon outlined the Federal government’s continued commitment to innovation, competitiveness, market development and regulatory cooperation with the United States. These are priorities for our industry and the Canadian Pork Council.
For full story »
Pig wasting syndrome costing farmers millions
Stark new figures show that a common pig virus, present on 99% of pig farms has major economic implications for individual farmers and the pig industry as a whole, costing British farmers as much as £84 per pig (if the pig dies from the syndrome), and during epidemic periods, such as 2008, costing the pig industry £88M per year .
For full story »
Association between faecal load of Lawsonia intracellularis and pathological findings of proliferative enteropathy in pigs with diarrhoea
The histological and quantitative PCR detection of Lawsonia intracellularis were correlated in pigs with diarrhoea. Overall the results suggest that clinically important levels for Lawsonia intracellularis excretion in faeces may be established. Such clinical threshold levels may be used in practice to confirm a diagnosis of Lawsonia intracellularis associated diarrhoea.
For full story »
Friday, March 29, 2013
UK - Common sense tells farmers this
The BPEX Pig Health Improvement Project (PHIP) is focusing this year’s activity on the elimination of swine dysentery. Pig producers have asked for this for two main reasons. Firstly, it is one of the most economically damaging infections a herd can contract and it can spread rapidly through a herd via faeces.
For full story »
New Technology Designed to Remove Airborne Contaminants from Swine Barns Shown Effective
Research conducted by the Prairie Swine Centre has shown technology designed to clean the air of swine barns to be effective in removing ammonia. On behalf of Swine Innovation Porc scientists with the Prairie Swine Centre examined the effectiveness of an air cleaning system developed by the Quebec based Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment which uses a biotrickling filter infused with bacteria. Prairie Swine Centre research scientist engineering Dr. Bernardo Predicala says the study focused on ammonia because ammonia is produced in all types of pig facilities and the instrumentation and techniques available to monitor ammonia are fairly straight forward.
For full story »
Experimental infection of cattle, sheep and pigs with 'Hobi'-like pestivirus
To date, limited information is available on the ability of 'Hobi'-like pestiviruses (putative bovine viral diarrhoea 3) to infect and cause disease in animal species traditionally affected by pestiviruses. In order to obtain new insights into host range and pathogenic potential of this atypical pestivirus, BVDV-seronegative calves (n=5), lambs (n=5) and piglets (n=5) were experimentally infected with the European 'Hobi'-like strain Italy-1/10-1, whereas two animals per species served as uninfected controls.
For full story »
Monday, April 1, 2013
CSHIN Offers Sharing of Information While Maintaining Confidentiality
The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network says the software that allows swine veterinarians to share information on emerging disease issues also serves to ensure individual farms are not identifiable. The Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network, a Canadian Swine Health Board initiative, was created to help swine veterinarians share information on disease issues developing in their regions. Project manager Dr. Egan Brockhoff explains the Swine Database System software that powers CSHIN is used by practicing swine veterinarians who have agreed to participate in the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network .
For full story »
Study: Coccidian infection in suckling piglets in China
Researchers at Huazhong Agricultural University in Wuhan, China have published a report in Veterinary Parasitology showing prevalence of coccidian infection in suckling piglets on 80 farms. The results of this investigation provided the relevant data for control strategies against porcine coccidiosis on pig farms in China. To determine the prevalence of coccidian infection in suckling piglets in China, fecal samples from 779 litters of suckling piglets were collected on 80 different farms in 17 provinces from September 2009 to December 2010. These samples were examined through saturated saline flotation technique.
For full story »
Probability of detecting Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection using pen-based swine oral fluid specimens as a function of within-pen prevalence
Pen-based oral fluid sampling has proven to be an efficient method for surveillance of infectious diseases in swine populations. To better interpret diagnostic results, the performance of oral fluid assays (antibody- and nucleic acid-based) must be established for pen-based oral fluid samples. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to determine the probability of detecting Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection in pen-based oral fluid samples from pens of known PRRSV prevalence.
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Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Future of antimicrobials
While Congress presently has bigger fish to fry, you can bet that antibiotic use in animals still is on the minds of some legislators, and the pork industry will continue to see challenges regarding antibiotics in the future. Jim McKean, swine Extension veterinarian at Iowa State University, told producers that over their lifetime, they would likely see limitations on labeled usages, prescription control for over-the-counter (OTC) products, constriction of extra-label use (direct and indirect), more specific residue detection and subsequent action to violators .
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Kinetics of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) humoral immune response in swine serum and oral fluids collected from individual boars
This study enhanced our knowledge of the PRRSV humoral immune response and provided a broader foundation for the development and application of oral fluid antibody-based diagnostics.
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Quantification of transmission of livestock-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pigs
Antimicrobial resistance in pigs becomes a public health issue when resistant organisms transfer from pigs to humans. Pigs are a large reservoir for livestock-associated (LA-)MRSA and people in contact with pigs are at risk for infection with LA-MRSA. Transmission and persistence of LA-MRSA within a pig population contributes to the maintenance of this zoonotic reservoir.
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Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Recent emergence of Staphylococcus aureus clonal complex 398 in human blood cultures
In an area with a relative high density of pigs, S. aureus CC398 was found as a cause of BSI in humans only recently. This indicates that S. aureus CC398 is able to cause invasive infections in humans and that the prevalence is rising. Careful monitoring of the evolution and epidemiology of S. aureus CC398 in animals and humans is therefore important .
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Demonstration of genes encoding virulence and virulence life-style factors in Brachyspira spp. isolates from pigs
The distribution of many genes encoding virulence and virulence life-style (VL-S) factors in Brachyspira (B.) hyodysenteriae and other Brachyspira species are largely unknown. Their knowledge is essential e.g. for the improvement of diagnostic methods targeting the detection and differentiation of the species.
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Toxicity of deoxynivalenol and its acetylated derivatives on the intestine: differential effects on morphology, barrier function, tight junction proteins, and mitogen-activated protein kinases
The intestinal epithelium is the first barrier against food contaminants and is highly sensitive to mycotoxins, especially deoxynivalenol (DON). Consumption of DON-contaminated food is associated with outbreaks of gastroenteritis. In cereals and their byproducts, DON is present together with two acetylated derivatives, 3-ADON and 15-ADON.
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Thursday, April 4, 2013
Effect of dietary selenium on boar sperm quality
The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of long-term dietary selenium supplementation of commercial swine diets on semen production and sperm quality. The dietary treatments were a non-supplemented basal diet or the basal diet supplemented with 0.3ppm selenium in either an organic or inorganic form .
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Molecular evolution of PRRSV in Europe: Current state of play
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a major threat to European swine production. The existence of extensive genetic variation in endemic strains and the presence of highly virulent strains in other geographic regions pose the threat of devastating epidemic outbreaks. Here we describe the current knowledge of genetic variation in European PRRSV isolates, the implications for PRRSV evolution, and the presence of multiple genetic lineages of Type 2 (North American genotype) isolates in Europe.
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Risks associated with high-dose Lactobacillus rhamnosus in an Escherichia coli model of piglet diarrhoea: intestinal microbiota and immune imbalances
Probiotic could be a promising alternative to antibiotics for the prevention of enteric infections; however, further information on the dose effects is required. In this study, weanling piglets were orally administered low- or high-dose Lactobacillus rhamnosus ACTT 7469 (10(10) CFU/d or 10(12) CFU/d) for 1 week before F4 (K88)-positive Escherichia coli challenge.
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Friday, April 5, 2013
PRRS Corner: Implement an Integrated Mapping Service for PRRS Regional Control and Elimination
There are approximately 20 regional PRRS control and elimination projects in the United States in various stages of progress. Each project coordinator has his/her own approach to mapping swine production sites within a region.
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PRRS Remains Among Most Difficult Challenges Facing U.S. Pork Producers
The U.S. based National Pork Board reports porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome remains one of the most difficult disease challenges facing U.S. pork producers. Several strategies have been used to address porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome including the establishment of more than two dozen regional PRRS elimination projects across the U.S.
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Toll-like receptor ligands enhance the protective effects of vaccination against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in swine
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is mainly responsible for the heavy economic losses in pig industry in the world. Current vaccination strategies provide only a limited protection. Previous studies have demonstrated the immunostimulatory adjuvant effects of Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands, synthetic double-stranded RNA polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic [poly(I:C)], lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and CL097 in humans and animals.
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Monday, April 8, 2013
CSHB Initiatives Demonstrate Value of Investment in Preventive Medicine
The chair of the Canadian Swine Health Board says the Canadian pork industry's experience with porcine circovirus has demonstrated the value of investments in preventive medicine. The creation of the Canadian Swine Health Board was announced in 2007 to deal with swine health issues including new and emerging diseases as part of the federal government's response to a porcine circovirus outbreak that had devastated the Canadian swine industry. The first contribution agreement ran until March 2011, it was subsequently extended to March 2013 and unspent federal funds were reallocated. Canadian Swine Health Board chair Florian Possberg says the organization has requested a further extension of the funding agreement and a further reallocation of unspent federal funds.
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Russia: New type of Foot-and-Mouth Disease found
In the village of Molodezhny, in Priargunsky district a new type of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) has been discovered. In the village, 8 pigs and 190 cattle were affected, while none of the animals have died. Vladimir Mishchenko, chief researcher of the Laboratory and Prevention of Diseases of Pigs and Cattle of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Animal Diseases, went to the region for an epizootic survey.
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Genotype patterns of contemporary reassorted H3N2 virus in U.S. swine
To understand the evolution of swine-origin H3N2v influenza viruses that have infected 320 humans in the U.S. since August 2011, we performed a phylogenetic analysis at a whole genome scale of North American swine influenza viruses (n = 200).
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Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Wisconsin pork producers work with state officials to control PRRS
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has initiated a new disclosure of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) status of swine as part of the import permit process. The new disclosure requirement, which became effective March 1, comes after a 20-month initiative by the Wisconsin Pork Association’s PRRS Committee to control the spread of the disease. Disclosure is made on the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and the import permit application, which are submitted and reviewed before a permit is issued. “The value of the genetics of hog breeders in Wisconsin requires that we protect the industry from this devastating disease,” says Secretary Ben Brancel. “The first step toward providing this protection is having knowledge of the status of PRRS in the pigs entering the state.”.
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Russia to restrict more Canadian meat imports
Since December, Russia has restricted the import of Canadian meats that contain this additive and are anticipated to tighten these regulations further. Russia is set to impose new restrictions on its meat imports next week, a move that is being watched closely by pork and cattle producers in Canada.
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Review of Influenza A Virus in Swine Worldwide: A Call for Increased Surveillance and Research
Pigs and humans have shared influenza A viruses (IAV) since at least 1918, and many interspecies transmission events have been documented since that time. However, despite this interplay, relatively little is known regarding IAV circulating in swine around the world compared with the avian and human knowledge base.
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Wednesday, April 10, 2013
New foot-and-mouth vaccine developed
British scientists have developed a new vaccine against foot-and-mouth disease that they say could turn the tide against a virus which is the scourge of livestock farmers. The breakthrough is the result of a seven-year, £6m collaboration between between publicly funded researchers at the Pirbright Institute, Diamond Light Source and Oxford and Reading universities. The Wellcome Trust and Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs funded most of the work .
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Russia to restrict more Canadian meat imports
Since December, Russia has restricted the import of Canadian meats that contain this additive and are anticipated to tighten these regulations further. Russia is set to impose new restrictions on its meat imports next week, a move that is being watched closely by pork and cattle producers in Canada.
For full story »
Review of Influenza A Virus in Swine Worldwide: A Call for Increased Surveillance and Research
Pigs and humans have shared influenza A viruses (IAV) since at least 1918, and many interspecies transmission events have been documented since that time. However, despite this interplay, relatively little is known regarding IAV circulating in swine around the world compared with the avian and human knowledge base.
For full story »
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Veterinary Oversight of Antimicrobial Use in Livestock; Public Meetings Agenda
Purpose: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is planning five meetings to provide an opportunity for public dialogue and feedback on challenges faced by the animal agriculture industry and practicing veterinarians as FDA implements its initiative for the judicious use of medically important antimicrobials in medicated feed or drinking water of food-producing animals. Particular emphasis will be placed on challenges faced by animal producers in areas that may lack access to adequate veterinary services.
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Wild boar pose disease risk to humans, domestic pigs
Escaped wild boar and feral pigs occupy the nebulous grey zone between wildlife and agriculture livestock and have been left to their own devices with limited control efforts. The animals, which were introduced to Canada in the 1990s through agriculture diversification programs, subsequently escaped or were deliberately released to establish free-roaming wild populations.
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Genetic Evolution and Phylogenetic Analysis of Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Infections in Southern China from 2011 to 2012
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), the primary causative agent of porcine circovirus-associated diseases (PCVADs), is a serious economic problem for the swine industry worldwide. Three major PCV2 genotypes (PCV2a, PCV2b, and PCV2c), have been identified. To explore the prevalence of different subgroups of PCV2 in southern China, 66 PCV2 isolates collected during 2011-2012 were analyzed.
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Friday, April 12, 2013
National Biosecurity Standard for Canadian Goat Farms
A new national biosecurity standard was released today that will help Canadian goat producers keep their animals and industry healthy. "This tool was developed with industry, for industry, to improve animal health on-farm," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Goat producers can use the Standard to enhance their disease prevention methods and this will benefit their business and the overall industry."
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FAO orders strong biosecurity measures in wake of AI
Responding to the occurrence of the A(H7N9) influenza virus in China requires strong biosecurity measures, FAO has said. Unlike other influenza strains, including highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1, this new virus is hard to detect in poultry because the novel virus causes little to no signs of disease in animals. "Unlike H5N1, where chickens were dying off on a large scale, with this virus we don't have a red flag that immediately signals an infection. This means farmers may not be aware that virus is circulating in their flock. Biosecurity and hygiene measures will help people protect themselves from virus circulating in seemingly healthy birds or other animals," said Juan Lubroth, FAO Chief Veterinary Officer.
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Fluorescent in situ hybridization for detection of "Brachyspira hampsonii" in porcine colonic tissues
Swine dysentery is classically associated with infection by the strongly beta-hemolytic Brachyspira hyodysenteriae; however, the proposed novel species "Brachyspira hampsonii" has also been isolated from clinical cases of dysentery in the United States and Canada. Microbial culture is highly sensitive for detecting Brachyspira in clinical samples but requires several days for completion and is often followed by molecular testing for speciation.
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Monday, April 15, 2013
Statement on H7N9 virus and illnesses in China
Recently, the World Health Organization issued an update confirming that a number of people in the People's Republic of China were infected by a type of avian influenza virus identified as A(H7N9). The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is committed to protecting human and animal health and is working closely with Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to monitor the situation in China.
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Chinese lab reveals H7N9 source
A top Chinese biology lab Wednesday ascribed the H7N9 avian influenza to genetic reassortment of wild birds from east Asia and chickens from east China. The researchers found that no genes in H7N9 were traceable to pigs, thus excluding pigs as intermediate hosts for the deadly new strain of bird flu, reports Xinhua.
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Experimental Infection of European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) with Pandemic 2009 H1N1 and Swine H1N1 and H3N2 Triple Reassortant Influenza Viruses
European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) are common peridomestic passerine birds that are often associated with domestic animal production facilities. This association provides a potential means for pathogen transmission between facilities.
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Tuesday, April 16, 2013
H7N9 genetic analysis raises concern over pandemic potential
A new analysis of H7N9 genetic sequences from the first Chinese patients infected with the virus and from poultry markets found more signals that the virus can attach and replicate efficiently in the airways of humans and other mammals, raising concerns about the virus's pandemic potential. The new findings, published late yesterday in Eurosurveillance, are the first detailed comparison of both the human and market sequences. Results are similar to the genetic details of samples from the first three.
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Federally Reportable Diseases for Terrestrial Animals in Canada - 2013
This table lists the number of confirmed farmed herds or flocks affected by federally reportable diseases in Canada this year. The numbers are running totals, up until and including the last day of the previous month. This table is updated on the tenth day of each month. The 10-day period is used to compile and validate the data. If the 10th day of the month falls on a weekend or a holiday, the table will be updated the next business day.
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Imported pigs may have introduced the first classical swine influenza viruses into Mainland China
Classical swine H1N1 influenza viruses were predominant in Beijing pig herds during this period. Since both antibody and virus detections did not indicate the presence of CS H1N1 before 1991 in Mainland China, we combined with the data on pigs imported to and exported from China and concluded that these viruses might spread to China via pigs imported from North America and that they could affect the genetic evolution and transmission dynamics of swine influenza viruses in Hong Kong.
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Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Placement of Post Doctoral Fellows at Veterinary Colleges Proves Successful
The research coordinator with the Canadian Swine Health Board reports a just completed program which placed post doctoral fellows into positions at six Canadian veterinary colleges has been highly successful. In an effort to bolster the renewal of manpower within the swine health industry, the Canadian Swine Health Board funded the placement of Post Doctoral Fellows, young scientists who have recently completed their Ph.D. programs, into three year positions at the Universities of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Guelph, Montreal, and Prince Edward Island and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization. Canadian Swine Health Board research coordinator Dr. Al Theede says, with that program now wrapped up, many of these scientists have decided to continue working in the swine health field and a couple have moved to other research programs including faculty positions at veterinary colleges.
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Study targets costly pig virus
A fast mutating virus that affects pig herds and costs pork producers millions of pounds each year is being targeted by scientists. A transatlantic research group is to tackle porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS).
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Is it a policy crisis or it is a health crisis? The Egyptian context - Analysis of the Egyptian health policy for the H1N1 flu pandemic control
A new influenza virus that was first detected in people in April 2009, was initially referred to colloquially as "swine flu", since it contained genes from swine, avian and human influenza viruses. It can, however, not be transmitted by eating pork or dealing with pigs. In Egypt, several hundred thousand pigs were killed in May, in spite of advice from global health authorities that such an action was unnecessary.
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Thursday, April 18, 2013
Review of influenza A virus in swine worldwide
The fight against influenza A virus in swine and other animal species requires support from governments, vets and the swine industry and extra funding and infrastructure. This was the outcome of a study that will be published in Zoonoses Public Health, this month. The research has been carried out by varioius scientists at Virus and Prion Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Ames, IA, United States. The researchers, in a study called ‘Review of Influenza A virus in swine worldwide’, state that pigs and humans have shared influenza A viruses since at least 1918, and many interspecies transmission events have been documented since that time.
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Probing How PRRS Affects Pig Lungs
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), a devastating disease in pigs, causes significant losses to the swine industry worldwide each year. The ability of the PRRS virus to persist and evade a host’s immune response has USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists digging deeper into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the disease. A team of scientists led by microbiologist Laura Miller at the ARS National Animal Disease Center (NADC) in Ames, IA, along with geneticist Zhihua Jiang and his colleagues at Washington State University, looked at the effect of the PRRS virus on how genes are expressed in white blood cells of the lung called alveolar macrophages. These cells, which are located within tiny air sacs in the lungs, play an important role in fighting the disease, and are the primary targets of infection.
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Evaluation on a Streptococcus suis Vaccine Using Recombinant Sao-L Protein Manufactured by Bioreactors as the Antigen in Pigs
Streptococcus suis (S. suis) can be classified into 33 serotypes based on the structure of capsular polysaccharides. Recent research indicated that a new surface protein designated as Sao (surface antigen one) reacts with 30 serotypes of convalescent-phase sera during S. suis infections, which makes Sao a good potential antigen for developing S. suis vaccines.
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Friday, April 19, 2013
Survey Shows PRRS-Free Herd Certification Expected to Improve Value of Breeding Stock
A recently completed producer survey has found most believe PRRS-free herd certification would add little to the cost of raising a pig but certified breeding stock would be worth more. The Western Canada PRRS-Free Herd Certification Pilot Project, administered by the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board through 2011 and 2012, provided suppliers of live pigs a protocol to certify their animals as free of PRRS. To assess the program's value a study was conducted to evaluate the cost of participating, producer attitudes toward the program, the willingness of swine purchasers to pay for herd certification and the global meat trade implications. Mark Ferguson, the manager of industry and policy analysis with Sask Pork says, just under two thousand producers across Canada were questioned.
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Scientists who created Dolly the sheep clone bring GM food a step closer by producing a pig that is immune to disease
The laboratory which created Dolly the sheep has produced a disease-resistant piglet using a new technique which is simpler than cloning. It is believed the development could bring GM meat a step closer. The piglet, known only as 'Pig 26', was created through a process called 'gene editing' at Edinburgh's Roslin Institute four months ago.
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Neuropathology and diagnostics in food animals
Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are relatively common in food animals. Potential causes include infectious agents, nutritional deficiencies, metabolic disorders, genetic defects, toxins, and idiopathic causes. Determining the correct etiologic diagnosis often depends on a thorough postmortem examination and collection of samples. This article reviews some of the steps and procedures necessary to collect the necessary information on CNS diseases in food animals. Techniques for the examination of the CNS are briefly described, and some of the gross pathology likely to be encountered in a food animal practice is reviewed.
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Monday, April 22, 2013
Producers urged to practise biosecurity as CFIA monitors H7N9 avian influenza situation
The H7N9 avian influenza virus that has been linked to human illnesses in the People’s Republic of China has not been identified in either birds or people in Canada to date. Canada does not import raw poultry products or live birds from China. However, avian influenza viruses are known to circulate in the wild bird population and can be transmitted to domestic poultry. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is reminding producers and backyard flock owners of the importance of practising biosecurity in order to protect their flocks.
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PigTrace Canada Swine Movement Reporting Database Now Operational
The Manager of PigTrace Canada reports the system that will accommodate the reporting of swine movements is now operational. To accommodate swine traceability, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is revising Canada's Health of Animals Regulation to, for the first time, require the reporting of all movements of pigs. Jeff Clark, the Manager of PigTrace Canada an initiative of the Canadian Pork Council, says January 1, 2014 has been targeted as the official launch date for mandatory reporting.
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Effects of 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol on the development of osteochondrosis in swine
The principal objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol (25-OH-D3 ) on the development of osteochondrosis in 6- to 110-kg castrated male pigs. The growth rate and serum calcium and inorganic phosphate levels neither increased nor decreased in response to supplementation of 25-OH-D3 . However, supplemental 25-OH-D3 significantly increased serum levels of 25-OH-D3 and 1a,25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol without any influence on bone mineral density.
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Tuesday, April 23, 2013
CSHB Initiatives Attract Interest of Producers of Other Livestock Species
The Executive Director of the Canadian Swine Health Board reports initiatives aimed at protecting the Canadian swine herd from disease are attracting the interest of those involved in the production of other livestock species. Since its formation in 2008, the Canadian Swine Health Board has overseen several initiatives aimed at protecting the Canadian swine herd from disease, including the delivery of a national biosecurity training program for swine producers and creation of a national swine disease surveillance system. CSHB Executive Director Bob Harding suggests efforts to control disease in swine have implications for other species.
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‘Managed Movement’ Offers Better Control of FMD
A veterinarian with the National Pork Board has devised a better way to deal with a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak if it reaches the United States. There has not been a reported case of FMD in the United States since 1929, and animal scientists are working hard to keep it that way. One step in protecting animals is to create emergency plans for how farmers and government officials should react during outbreaks.
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MHJ_0125 is an M42 glutamyl aminopeptidase that moonlights as a multifunctional adhesin on the surface of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae
Bacterial aminopeptidases play important roles in pathogenesis by providing a source of amino acids from exogenous proteins, destroying host immunological effector peptides and executing posttranslational modification of bacterial and host proteins. We show that MHJ_0125 from the swine respiratory pathogen Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae represents a new member of the M42 class of bacterial aminopeptidases.
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Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Tanzania: Swine Fever Spreads to More Regions
The government has deployed experts in regions reportedly hit by the African Swine Fever (ASF) to study the magnitude of the problem and take relevant action. The Minister for Livestock Development and Fisheries, Dr Mathayo David Mathayo, told the 'Daily News' on Tuesday that the government was aware of the disease and urged farmers to take care of their livestock. He confirmed that SFA outbreak has already been reported in Sumbawanga District in Rukwa Region, some parts of Iringa and Ludewa and Kyela districts.
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Native American pig farmer fights for rights
A farmer, and Native American with the Keeweenaw Bay Indian Community is suing the state of Michigan in federal court over it's ban on exotic pigs. Brenda Turunen has been farming for twenty-three years and says the state's actions violates her Native American rights.
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Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection in Norwegian swine herds 2009/10: The risk of human to swine transmission
Influenza A viruses cause respiratory infection in humans and pigs, and some serotypes can be transmitted between these species. The emergence of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infections in the spring of 2009 quickly led to a worldwide pandemic in humans, with subsequent introduction of the virus to pig populations. Following a widespread infection in the human population in Norway, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus was introduced to the influenza A naïve Norwegian pig population, and within a few months pigs in more than one third of Norwegian swine herds had antibodies against the virus.
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Thursday, April 25, 2013
Notice of Availability of a National Animal Health Laboratory Network Reorganization Concept Paper
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA: We are advising the public that the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is making available a concept paper that describes a revised structure for the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) for public review and comment. The NAHLN is a nationally coordinated network and partnership of Federal, State, and university-associated animal health laboratories working to protect animal and public health and the nation's food supply by providing diagnostic testing aimed at detecting biological threats to the nation's food animals. The concept paper we are making available for comment presents a structure we believe will give the NAHLN increased capacity and flexibility to detect and respond to emerging and zoonotic diseases. .
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Ontario Swine Improvement Award Winners Named
Ontario Swine Improvement has handed out it’s annual awards. Doctor Doug MacDougald is this year’s industry contribution award winner.
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Immunological characterization of peripheral blood leukocytes using vaccine for mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine (MPS) in swine line selected for resistance to MPS
This study was conducted to evaluate immunological changes in peripheral blood leukocytes in pigs that were genetically selected for their improved resistance to mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine (MPS), using MPS vaccine as an antigen. Twelve castrated MPS-selected Landrace pigs were compared with the same number of pigs from a nonselected line by using a time-course analysis at the hematological level.
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Friday, April 26, 2013
FDA Cautions in Interpretation of Antimicrobial Resistance Data
Recently, the Environmental Working Group issued a report of its interpretation of the 2011 Retail Meat Annual Report of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS). While FDA is always concerned when we see antimicrobial resistance, we believe the EWG report oversimplifies the NARMS data and provides misleading conclusions.
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Hidden impacts of FMD
Outbreaks of foot and mouth disease (FMD) result in a range of direct and indirect costs, and public opinion can play a significant role in response and outcomes. Those were key messages as Sebastian Heath, VetMB, PhD, branch chief of program development with the Federal Emergency Management Agency kicked off this week’s FMD Symposium in Louisville, Ky. The symposium, focusing on FMD preparedness, took place in conjunction with the National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s annual conference. For his presentation, Heath drew upon his experience with several FMD outbreaks around the world. He recently published a 10-year retrospective on the 2002 FMD outbreak in the United Kingdom documenting short- and long-term impacts on rural communities.
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Plasmin activity in the porcine airways is enhanced during experimental infection with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, is positively correlated with proinflammatory cytokine levels and is ameliorated by vaccination
In Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhp) infection of swine, the host immune response is considered a major driver of lung pathology; however the underlying inflammatory mechanisms are not well understood. The serine protease plasmin is being increasingly recognised as a significant player in inflammatory processes. Here we compare plasmin activity in tracheobronchial lavage fluid (TBLF) from pigs experimentally challenged with Mhp that were either unvaccinated (n=10), or vaccinated with the commercial vaccine Suvaxyn® M.hyo (n=10).
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Monday, April 29, 2013
Russia: CSF vaccine - result in pigs deaths
About 25 pigs were recently found dead on the pig farm Berkut in the Republic of Udmurtia central Russia. According to preliminary experts it could be due to Classical Swine Fever. According to the Head of the Department of Agriculture Administration of the Votkinsk district, Alevtina Smolentseva, Classical Swine was present at the farm because the management of the farm recently vaccinated against this disease.
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Russia chops Canadian meat supplier list to 19 plants
Russia's plans to block meat imports from livestock raised on ractopamine will see its list of approved Canadian suppliers cut to 14 pork packing plants, four beef plants and one plant processing both. Rosselkhoznadzor, Russia's federal veterinary and phytosanitary service, said April 9 it had informed Dr. Louise Carriere, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's director for international market access in Ottawa, of its decision.
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Quantification of airborne African swine fever virus after experimental infection
Knowledge on African Swine Fever (ASF) transmission routes can be useful when designing control measures against the spread of ASF virus (ASFV). Few studies have focused on the airborne transmission route, and until now no data has been available on quantities of ASF virus (ASFV) in the air. Our aim was to validate an air sampling technique for ASF virus (ASFV) that could be used to detect and quantify virus excreted in the air after experimental infection of pigs.
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Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Learning from FMD outbreaks
As the United States plans and prepares for the possibility of an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD), we have the benefit of knowledge gained from outbreaks around the world in recent years. During last week’s annual conference of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, University of California-Davis veterinarian Pam Hullinger described what went right and what might have been done differently in several FMD outbreaks.
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US: Antibiotic-resistance data distorted
Just days after the release of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report showing that medical doctors annually are prescribing enough antibiotics to give them to 80 percent of Americans, a group is set to issue its own report, claiming that antibiotics use in food animals is the main cause for people developing antibiotic-resistant diseases. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is using selective and incomplete 2011 government data on retail meat samples to blame America’s livestock and poultry farmers for the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant illnesses in people.
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Prevalence of Yersinia enterocolitica in Antimicrobial-Free and Conventional Antimicrobial Use Swine Production
Swine are the primary reservoir for foodborne illness associated with Yersinia enterocolitica. The use of antimicrobials in animal agriculture has been hypothesized as having a potential role in the increase in prevalence of zoonotic pathogens. The objective of this study was to compare the frequency of Y. enterocolitica fecal shedding in swine reared on farms with conventional antimicrobial use policies to farms that were antimicrobial free (ABF).
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Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Revised Pig Code of Practice to be Released for Public Comment June 1
The National Farm Animal Care Council reports a revised Pig Code of Practice will be released for public comment June 1. The National Farm Animal Care Council in partnership with industry stakeholders, the veterinary medical community, animal welfare organizations and government, is coordinating the revision of eight codes of practice, including the Pig Code of Practice. NFACC general manager and project coordinator Jackie Wepruk reports the Pig Code Committee has completed its task, of developing a draft code of practice, which will be released for public comment June 1.
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6th International Conference on Colonic Spirochaetal Infections in Animal and Humans
The '6th International Conference on Colonic Spirochaetal Infections in Animals and Humans' will take place on 5th & 6th September 2013 at the University of Surrey, UK.
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Nontransmission of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) by embryo transfer
Two experiments were conducted to determine the association of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) with embryos and the risk of viral transmission by embryo transfer. In the first experiment, 240 embryos from uninfected donors were exposed to PCV2a 104TCID50/mL in vitro before transfer to seronegative recipients; in the second experiment, 384 embryos recovered from infected donors, 10 days after donor inoculation with PCV2, were transferred to seronegative recipients.
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Thursday, May 2, 2013
High-Consequence Animal Diseases Factsheet
As part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) safeguarding mission, we have prepared a factsheet that explains the criteria used to describe "high-consequence" disease incidents and includes a list of serious foreign animal diseases and pests that do not currently exist in the United States.
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Pork Producers Find Value in Certifying Swine as PRRS-Free
The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board reports pork producers are finding value in a Canadian Swine Health Board program for certifying swine herds as free of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome. The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan on behalf of the Canadian Swine Health Board has completed a survey which examined the impact of PRRS-free herd certification on the value of pigs. Mark Ferguson, the manager of industry and policy analysis with Sask Pork, says approximately two thousand pork producers were asked to share their views on the value of certifying herds to be PRRS-Free.
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Microbiological study of biofilm formation in isolates of Salmonella enterica Typhimurium DT104 and DT104b cultured from the modern pork chain
The purpose of this study was to characterise 172 Salmonella Typhimurium isolates taken from the pork chain for their biofilm forming abilities and to analyse their potential to survive on food processing surfaces. Many Salmonella have the ability to form biofilms. These natural structures, elaborated by bacteria are important in food production because their formation contributes to bacterial survival.
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Friday, May 3, 2013
Swine Traceability Expected to Create Management and Marketing Advantages
The Manager of PigTrace Canada is confident the introduction of swine traceability will provide Canada's pork producers a range of management and marketing advantages. To accommodate swine traceability, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is revising Canada's Health of Animals Regulation to, for the first time, require the reporting of all movements of pigs and targeting January 1, 2014 as the official start date for mandatory reporting.
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Pig Stress Syndrome Linked to Gene Defect
A defect in a gene called dystrophin is the cause of a newly discovered stress syndrome in pigs, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists have found. Stress-related issues like transportation cost the U.S. swine industry an estimated $50 million a year. Producers as well as researchers have long suspected that undetected stress-related syndromes are affecting the health and well-being of pigs.
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Predicting hotspots for influenza virus reassortment
The 1957 and 1968 influenza pandemics, each of which killed ~1 million persons, arose through reassortment events. Influenza virus in humans and domestic animals could reassort and cause another pandemic. To identify geographic areas where agricultural production systems are conducive to reassortment, we fitted multivariate regression models to surveillance data on influenza A virus subtype H5N1 among poultry in China and Egypt and subtype H3N2 among humans.
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Monday, May 6, 2013
Vaccines against African Swine Fever: Yes, we can!
Why is African Swine Fever worrying pig production? One - the disease continues to cause problems in Russia, two - there is no vaccine. Yet, that is. Spanish researchers recently found that protective T-cells may change this. African Swine Fever virus (ASFV) is the causal agent of a serious disease which affects domestic pigs and causes important economic losses to the affected countries. ASFV is the only DNA arbovirus ( ar thropod- bo rne- virus ) known, and its perpetuation and transmission in Africa, where the virus remains endemic, involves a sylvatic cycle (i.e. occurring in the wild) between ticks of the Ornithodoros genus and wild pigs that are resistant to the disease, becoming a continuous source of virus, therefore complicating its eradication.
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USDA Plans Meeting to Consider Control Program for Feral Swine
To more effectively address nationally the damage and disease risks associated with feral swine, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is considering implementing a nationally coordinated feral swine damage management program in partnership with states and tribes. On May 23, APHIS’ Wildlife Services and Veterinary Services programs will host a scoping meeting to provide more information about a national approach to feral swine damage management and take comments from participating stakeholders. Anyone who is unable to attend in person can join the meeting via a live Webcast. Additional meeting information is available on the Wildlife Services' Web site at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/feral_swine/index.shtml.
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Antigenic characterization of H3N2 influenza A viruses from Ohio agricultural fairs
The demonstrated link between the emergence of H3N2 variant (H3N2v) influenza A viruses (IAVs) and swine exposure at agricultural fairs has raised concerns about the human health risk posed by IAV-infected swine. Understanding the antigenic profiles of IAVs circulating in pigs at agricultural fairs is critical to developing effective prevention and control strategies. Here 68 H3N2 IAV isolates recovered from pigs at Ohio fairs (2009 to 2011) were antigenically characterized.
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Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Pork imports battle heading for Supreme Court
The long-running dispute between pig farmers and the Government over imports of uncooked pork meat is set to go to the country's highest court. The New Zealand Pork Board filed papers on Thursday that will take its dispute with the Ministry for Primary Industries over imports of uncooked pork meat back to court if the case is accepted.
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InterVac gets federal certification
Saskatoon’s new International Vaccine Centre has received a green light from federal regulators to begin working with the agents that cause infectious diseases like tuberculosis, avian influenza and HIV. More than a year-and-a-half after construction finished on the $144-million facility, InterVac can finally begin to accept clients — researchers who need carefully controlled labs to perform experiments with potentially dangerous pathogens.
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Vaccination of piglets at 1 week of age with an inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vaccine reduces lung lesions and improves average daily gain in body weight
The field efficacy and safety of a single-dose inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vaccine, Suvaxyn MH-One, was evaluated in 4-5-day-old piglets on a commercial farm with a history of Mycoplasma disease in Southern Germany. The piglets were injected intramuscularly with the vaccine or saline (control group) and raised under commercial conditions to slaughter weight.
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Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Research Key to Addressing PRRS
The National Pork Board suggests, by developing a better understanding of the mechanisms the PRRS virus uses to evade the immune system, scientists will be in a much better position to deal with the infection. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome affects the reproductive performance of breeding sows, slows growth rates among grower pigs and is considered the most costly disease facing North American pork producers. Several strategies have been used to address PRRS including the establishment of more than two dozen regional PRRS elimination projects across the U.S.
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Campylobacter infections in man - is it a pig problem?
The transmission of campylobacter, the commonest cause of gastrointestinal bacterial infections in humans is commonly blamed on meat contamination. Is it spread via pig meat to man? The good news is - it is not. If it is not, then why does the pig industry constantly get battered about the transmission of zoonotic infections and they always lump together campylobacter with salmonella. Antimicrobial resistance associated with campylobacter is always an extension of the issue. Campylobacter coli is the major pig species and it can cause diarrhoea in man, if they become infected.
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The welfare implications of large litter size in the domestic pig I: Biological factors
Increasing litter size has long been a goal of pig breeders and producers, and may have implications for pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) welfare. This paper reviews the scientific evidence on biological factors affecting sow and piglet welfare in relation to large litter size. It is concluded that, in a number of ways, large litter size is a risk factor for decreased animal welfare in pig production.
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Thursday, May 9, 2013
Economic Evaluation Expected to Shed Light on Costs of Proposed Changes to Canada's Pig Code of Practice
The president and CEO of the Prairie Swine Centre says an economic analysis will shed light on the anticipated costs of complying with a proposed updated Canadian Pig Code of Practice. In anticipation of the planned June 1 public release of a proposed updated code of practice for the care of pigs in Canada an analysis of the economic impact of any changes to the code on producers is being conducted on behalf of the Canadian pork industry. Lee Whttington, the president and CEO of the Saskatoon based Prairie Swine Centre, says the analysis will be released as part of the 60 day public evaluation process.
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Nitrogen gas foam for humane culling of pigs
The use of nitrogen gas foam as a humane way to cull animals that are in pain is being tested at the Swine Research Centre of Wageningen University. With this method the pigs will be unconscious quickly due to too much nitrogen and also die in a short time. The research follows the new European council regulation No 1099/2009, stating that pigs or poultry (and other animals) that are in severe pain or that suffer severely have to be euthanised, if there is no practical and economical way to alleviate this pain or suffering.
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The role of added feed enzymes in promoting gut health in swine and poultry
The value of added feed enzymes (FE) in promoting growth and efficiency of nutrient utilisation is well recognised in single-stomached animal production. However, the effects of FE on the microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) are largely unrecognised. A critical role in host nutrition, health, performance and quality of the products produced is played by the intestinal microbiota.
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Friday, May 10, 2013
NFACC Encourages Everyone to Be Involved in Updating Canada's Codes of Practice for Caring for Farm Animals
The National Farm Animal Care Council says everyone has a responsibility for ensuring the success of Canada's codes of practice for the care of farm animals. The National Farm Animal Care Council is coordinating the revision of eight codes of practice for the care of farm animals in Canada. A draft Pig Code of Practice is scheduled to be released for public comment June 1.
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Research: Potatoes against scours in weaned pigs?
Scientists from Aarhus University in Denmark have not managed to reproduce tests done in South Korea in which extracts of potato protein could be used to prevent scours in young pigs. The initial Korean research results gave scientists grounds to believe that a potato-derived product could be used to prevent diarrhoea in piglets, avoiding the need for resistance-developing antibiotics. If successful, this would have been of significant benefit to the agricultural industry.
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Evaluation of the antibacterial residue surveillance programme in Danish pigs using Bayesian methods
Residues of pharmacological active substances or their metabolites might be found in food products from food-producing animals. Maximum Residue Limits for pharmacological active substances in foodstuffs of animal origin are established to assure high food safety standards. Each year, more than 20,000 samples are analysed for the presence of antibacterial residues in Danish pigs.
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Monday, May 13, 2013
Pork Producers Encouraged to Consider the Advantages of Group Sow Housing
A researcher with the Prairie Swine Centre is encouraging pork producers to focus on the advantages offered by group housing as they consider moving away the use of gestation stalls. In the wake of increasing public pressure to eliminate gestation stalls some of North America's largest pork processors have committed to moving to group housing systems and many retailers are now saying they want to source pork from stall free systems..
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Susceptibility towards enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4ac diarrhea is governed by the MUC13 gene in pigs
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F4ac is a major determinant of diarrhea and mortality in neonatal and young pigs. Susceptibility to ETEC F4ac is governed by the intestinal receptor specific for the bacterium and is inherited as a monogenic dominant trait. To identify the receptor gene (F4acR), we first mapped the locus to a 7.8-cM region on pig chromosome 13 using a genome scan with 194 microsatellite markers.
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Concurrent highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection accelerates Haemophilus parasuis infection in conventional pigs
This study was aimed at determining the effect of highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV) on Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) in co-infection. A quantitative real-time PCR targeting infB gene, which is conserved among different HPS serotypes, was developed to improve the accuracy and speed of the detection of HPS.
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Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Hogs Don’t Have Health Insurance: The Myth of Antibiotic Use
Missouri pork producer Chris Chinn, who serves as a Face of Farming & Ranching for U.S. Farmers& Ranchers Alliance, shatters the myth that hogs are regularly fed antibiotics. In fact, the opposite is true on the family’s Clarence, MO, farm. "On our farm, it’s normal for us to have entire groups of pigs that never have had any antibiotics when they go to market. Yes, you read that correctly. I know this is not what you see on the Internet about how farmers use antibiotics. It seems everywhere you look, you can read or hear a very different story. I’m here to tell you this is a myth."
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Research Shows Biofiltration Effective in Removing Airborne Contaminants from Swine Barns
Research conducted by the Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment has shown biological filtration to be an effective option for removing various contaminants from the air of swine barns.
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Reduced neonatal mortality in Meishan piglets: a role for hepatic fatty acids?
The Meishan pig breed exhibits increased prolificacy and reduced neonatal mortality compared to commercial breeds, such as the Large White, prompting breeders to introduce the Meishan genotype into commercial herds.
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Wednesday, May 15, 2013
CEO: Half of Smithfield's U.S. pork will soon be off ractopamine
Smithfield Foods Inc, the world's largest pork producer, said on Tuesday it will soon raise half of its hogs on feed that does not contain the additive ractopamine, a lean muscle promoting drug that has been banned in China and Russia. Two Smithfield plants, which handle 43,000 hogs a day or about 10 percent of the U.S. industry, already are ractopamine-free, Chief Executive Larry Pope said at the BMO Capital Markets Farm to Market Conference in New York.
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Main risk factors for Salmonella infections in pigs in north-western Germany
Salmonellosis is one of the major zoonotic, food-borne diseases, among others, caused by pig derived food products. As infected pigs are one of the main sources of the introduction of the bacterium into the food chain, scientific research in the last years has focussed on identifying risk factors for infection as well as developing mitigation strategies on this level of production.
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Early Weaning Stress in Pigs Impairs Innate Mucosal Immune Responses to Enterotoxigenic E. coli Challenge and Exacerbates Intestinal Injury and Clinical Disease
These data demonstrate the early weaning stress can profoundly alter subsequent immune and physiology responses and clinical outcomes to subsequent infectious pathogen challenge. Given the link between early life stress and gastrointestinal diseases of animals and humans, a more fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which early life stress impacts subsequent pathophysiologic intestinal responses has implications for the prevention and management of important GI disorders in humans and animals..
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Thursday, May 16, 2013
ASF in Belarus - 20,000 pigs culled
While authorities and heads of the pig farm Vostochni continue to deny the occurrence of an African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak at the beginning of May, farm workers are convinced that the company is hiding information from the media. "During a week we’ve destroyed pigs, while there was not a word in the media about the epidemic or whatever it is officially called. Only later, when half the village of Zemcuzna located nearby where many people work at the pig farm started to sound the alarm and contact the media, it was made public," said an employee.
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Oral immunization with f4 fimbriae and CpG formulated with carboxymethyl starch enhances f4-specific mucosal immune response and modulates Th1 and th2 cytokines in weaned pigs
Purpose. F4 fimbriae are a potential candidate for an oral subunit vaccine for prevention of post-weaning diarrhea in swine due to infection with F4-positive enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. However, large quantities of F4 fimbriae are required to induce a specific antibody response.
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Methicillin-resistant staphylococci: implications for our food supply?
Food-borne intoxication, caused by heat-stable enterotoxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus, causes over 240,000 cases of food-borne illness in the United States annually. Other staphylococci commonly associated with animals may also produce these enterotoxins.
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Press Release Archives
2012
November 21, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Swine Biosecurity in Canada - in Pictures!
November 9, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHIN Launches Data Network
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October 18, 2012 — WINNIPEG, Manitoba — CFIA Officially Recognizes CSHB Biosecurity Standard
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October 17, 2012 — WINNIPEG, Manitoba — CSHB Encourages Flu Shots for Producers and Swine Care Workers
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September 13, 2012 — OTTAWA, Onatrio — CSHB's Canadian Swine Health Forum - Early Registration Deadline
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June 11, 2012 — OTTAWA, Onatrio — CSHB's Biosecurity Training Program Highlighted at IPVS 2012
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March 31, 2012 — OTTAWA, Onatrio — Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network Announced
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February 2, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Canadian Swine Health Board to present at One Health Summit
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January 24, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Canadian Swine Health Board Congratulates Incoming CPC President
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2011
October 20, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB Encourages Flu Shots for Producers and Farm Personnel
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October 6, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB Launches Biosecurity User Guide
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August 11, 2011— OTTAWA, Ontario — Mortality insurance for swine reaches milestone
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June 6, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB Funding included in June 6 Budget
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May 12, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — National Swine Biosecurity Training Program Launched
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»
March 3, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Vesicular Disease Awareness Bulletins Released
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2010
January 8, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB Announces Program Coordinators
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January 21, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB to evaluate PRRS control and eradication in Canada
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March 25, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB launches national biosecurity study
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May 15, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Government of Canada Supports Farmers by Investing in Animal Health
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May 21, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Special Update on the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreaks Occurring in Japan, and South Korea
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September 2, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CSHB Confirms Executive for Coming Year
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November 30, 2010 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Get Your Flu Shot
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2009
April 27, 2009 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CPC And CSHB Encourage Producers To Review And Strengthen Existing Biosecurity Practices To Prevent The Introduction Of The New Influenza Virus Into Canadian Operations
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June 26, 2009 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Robert Harding named executive director of CSHB
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Related Press Releases
December 11, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Highlights From NFAHWC Forum 2012
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December 3, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Dr. Daniel Hurnik - 2012 Carl Block Award Recipient
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August 31, 2012 — OTTAWA, Ontario — CFIA Notice to Industry. Reminder to Producers: Strengthen Biosecurity to Protect Health
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June 30, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians Hires National PRRS Area and Regional Control and Elimination (ARC&E) Coordinators
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January 31, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — National Farmed Animal Health and Welfare Council Receives Interim Reports on Two Priority Items
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January 11, 2011 — OTTAWA, Ontario — Swine Disease Surveillance
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May 15, 2010 — WINNIPEG, Manitoba — Government of Canada Supports Farmers by Investing in Animal Health
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