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USDA reports on six-month PEDv progress
Story Date: 12/17/2014
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Source: NATIONAL ASSOC. OF STATE DEPTS. OF AGRICULTURE, 12/16/14
USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) reported on its progress addressing Swine Enteric Coronavirus Disease (SECD) since issuing a Federal Order six months ago, which required reporting of SECD to federal and state animal health officials. USDA reported receiving more accurate and timely information about SECD affected herds and their locations, which allows animal health officials to better understand how the disease spreads and what measures are most effective in containing it. A team of USDA epidemiologists is wrapping up its investigation of 11 potential pathways for how SECD entered the country and will analyze its findings over the next several months before drafting its report and findings. USDA is using the $26.2 million in funds provided in June to offset the cost of diagnostic testing, biosecurity and herd plans for producers and veterinarians, and will continue to do so as long as funding remains. SECD is known to spread more readily in the winter months, specifically because truck washes are less effective in cold weather. Producers are encouraged to continue to be vigilant in their biosecurity practices to protect against disease introduction, especially during the winter months when SECD is known to spread more readily. After the winter months, USDA will work with state and industry partners to assess the effectiveness of current on-farm mitigations and determine what the SECD program should look like in the future.
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