Source: National Hog Farmer
Of the 183 countries in the World Organization of Animal Health, only 67 are free of foot-and-mouth disease, and only 38 are free of Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV). African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) has been reported in 60 countries since 2007. Despite North American pork producers being largely protected, the increasing movement of pigs globally and within the U.S. poses a significant risk for disease spread.
Jeffrey Zimmerman from Iowa State University advocates for a new surveillance approach, focusing on regional herd health rather than individual testing, to quickly detect and manage outbreaks. The U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP) proposes sampling a few sick pigs from many herds, which enhances early detection and supports trade continuity. Using USDA simulation software, Zimmerman’s team found a high probability of detecting infections with this method, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and adaptability for various pathogens.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.nationalhogfarmer.com/livestock-management/does-the-u-s-swine-industry-need-a-new-surveillance-approach-