Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) in Canada
What is porcine epidemic diarrhea?
Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a viral disease of pigs. The disease causes diarrhea and vomiting in pigs. It can be very serious and can kill younger pigs in herds that have not previously been exposed to the virus.
Is PED a risk to human health?
PED does not pose a risk to human health or food safety. PED only affects pigs and does not pose a risk to other animals.
Where is PED found in Canada?
The first case of PED in Canada was confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in January 2014, on a swine farm in Ontario. Since then, PED has also been reported in Manitoba, Quebec and Prince Edward Island.
How is PED transmitted and spread?
PED is typically transmitted by direct contact between infected and non-infected pigs. It can also be spread through people's clothing, boots, vehicles, equipment, and other items contaminated with the feces of infected animals.
What is done to protect Canadian swine herds in Canada?
The disease is provincially regulated in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and Ontario. Suspect cases of PED in these provinces are reported to provincial authorities. Producers should consult their veterinarians immediately if their animals exhibit signs of PED.
Information on provincial requirements:
PED is not a federally regulated disease in Canada. The federal government's role in this disease is to monitor, provide diagnostic support, facilitate broad discussions on disease management, negotiate with trading partners and report internationally as required.
To help industry respond to the threat posed by PED, the CFIA has facilitated access to vaccines for emergency use under veterinary supervision. Vaccination is only one measure to help protect against disease. Producers are encouraged to remain vigilant and maintain strict biosecurity measures on farm to help protect their animals and their industry. For guidance on disease prevention on farm, producers can consult the Canadian Swine Health Board's National Swine Farm-Level Biosecurity Standard.
The CFIA will continue to work with industry and provincial organizations to provide technical assistance and scientific support as required in response to this disease.
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