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Pork checkoff monitoring H5N1 and hog disease

A veterinarian says the spread of viruses, like H5N1 in livestock, are being closely monitored by the pork checkoff.

“We want to make sure we’re doing everything to reduce exposure to pigs, whether they’re outdoor or indoor raised pigs.”

Patrick Webb with the National Pork Board says Influenza A hasn’t been confirmed in hogs since last fall, but the industry has been working on a plan to respond. He says biosecurity remains key for prevention.

“Especially with Pork Quality Assurance, how you set up buffers and reduce any opportunities for birds or rodents to eat feed. And then, anything you can do to keep birds out of barns.”

Webb says hogs raised outside have a greater chance for Influenza A due to exposure to wild animals and farmers should stay in touch with their local veterinarian.

Webb also says the checkoff is closely monitoring hog diseases, like African swine fever and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome. He was a speaker at the Missouri Pork Expo this week.