Source: Lisa M. Keefe, MEATINGPLACE, 7/10/15


In the apparent aftermath of the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV), the U.S.-based Swine Health Information Center is gearing up operations, eventually to bring together those who can help build a system to prepare for the next new disease that could enter the U.S.

The center is now open and beginning to build an international swine health intelligence network to track swine diseases worldwide, according to Farms.com.

The organization also will establish research programs to prepare for the possible arrival of these diseases on U.S. shores, and facilitate communications among producers on the health status of swine.

The funding for the center was approved by the National Pork Board last fall. The contract, however, reportedly was just approved and the funding released at the beginning of July.

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