Two Recent Disease Outbreaks Among Pigs Has Producers on the Lookout

Pork producers in Washington have been on high alert after two disease outbreaks, including Porcine Delta Coronavirus for the first time ever in the state followed by Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, or PRRS.

WSU Extension’s Sarah Smith said the symptoms for the Coronavirus are similar to PED.

“I feel pretty comfortable that our commercial pig producers understand how critical biosecurity is, but I think a lot of times people with one or two pigs don’t realize they can be just as important because the way the bird flies they might not be that far from another hog farm.”

There is no vaccine for the Delta Coronavirus, but treatment means making sure to get a good plan with a veterinarian and maybe the with WSU’s experts.

Smith said it’s important for the 4H and FFA kids that are showing pigs this fair season to be smart.

“If they’re sharing equipment like scales, do a really good disinfectant in between farm use is ideal. I also really don’t like to see pigs mixed together, like practicing and stuff, unless they’re going to be a terminal at the end of that show.”

For diagnosis help, or other information, visit the newly redesigned and consolidated Animal Ag website at AnimalAg.wsu.edu.

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