Alberta Pork is recommending producers document and trace all the movements of their hogs in an effort to protect their farms from porcine epidemic diarrhea virus.
“In the face of a potential PEDv outbreak in Alberta, it is strongly recommended by Alberta Pork that all swine movements be manifested and reported to the Alberta Pork Traceability Program,” said Alberta Pork in a news release.
In Ontario, 21 cases of porcine epidemic diarrhea have been positively identified. Officials are tracking any connection between the cases.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is continuing to conduct tests to see if feed may have been a contributing factor in the spread of PED. The virus was present in samples of U.S.-origin plasma obtained at the third-party manufacturer for Grand Valley Fortifiers. The plasma was used as an ingredient in feed pellets produced by the company. Tests will determine if the plasma ingredient contains live virus that could cause the disease in pigs.
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The tests hope to see if there is a direct link between the feed and the spread of the disease. It is also examining company records to see where the potentially affected product was distributed.
CFIA is also reviewing records of other imports of swine plasma. As the investigation continues, more possible recalls may be implemented to minimize the spread of the disease.
