Special Report

Hog virus found in U.S. for first time

The USDA has confirmed that porcine epidemic diarrhea virus—called PEDV for short—has been identified in the U.S. for the first time through testing at the National Veterinary Service Laboratory.

Reuters reports that the virus, which causes diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration in hogs, was first identified in an Iowa herd.  The severity of the outbreak is not yet known.

The virus exists in much of the world, but has not previously occurred in the western hemisphere.

According to a statement from the National Pork Board, PEDV is similar to transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE), another disease only affecting pigs. It is not zoonotic, so therefore it poses no risk to other animals or humans.

PEDV is not a trade-restricting disease and does not affect pork safety.  The Pork Board emphasizes that pork remains completely safe to eat.