Source: Lisa M. Keefe, MEATINGPLACE, 7/19/17



After a mostly quiet two-year period, Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDv) is spreading rapidly across southeast Manitoba, with 69 sites reporting positive results from tests since the beginning of May, according to an update on the Manitoba provincial government website.

PEDv causes severe dehydration and diarrhea in pigs, and is generally fatal in very young animals, although older animals can recover. The virus killed so many piglets in the United States in 2015 that it caused major disruption in the pork markets.
PEDv is not transmitted to humans or other animals. It is also not a food safety risk.

In response to the resurgence of PEDv in the province, area farmers, transporters and processors have stepped up biosecurity measures, including isolating sick animals, and emptying and thoroughly cleaning affected barns and trucks.

As of July 17, nine of the 69 premises in Manitoba confirmed to have PEDv are now determined to be "PEDv Presumptive Negative" following a status protocol developed by the Chief Veterinary Office and Manitoba's swine veterinarians.

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