Manitoba Pork’s Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED) elimination plan is being put into action following the province’s first PED case of 2024, reported on December 3rd in a finisher barn located in southeastern Manitoba. This outbreak has triggered a full biocontainment response as outlined in the province’s PED Elimination Plan, developed collaboratively by Manitoba Pork and Manitoba Agriculture.
Surveillance and Biosecurity Measures
Jenelle Hamblin, Director of Swine Health with Manitoba Pork, emphasizes the critical importance of swift and robust biosecurity measures in response to this case. The elimination plan includes a comprehensive approach to containment, leveraging past experiences to shape current actions.
“All farms within five kilometers of the infected premises are under surveillance,” says Hamblin. “Weekly samples are being taken and submitted for diagnostics. Enhanced biosecurity protocols have been implemented not only in the immediate five-kilometer radius but across all of southeastern Manitoba.”
Producers are urged to watch closely for clinical signs of PED and report any suspicions to their veterinarian immediately. “When PED appears in a southeastern farm, the risk of spread is higher,” Hamblin explains. “We need to double down on biosecurity to keep this virus contained.”
Testing the Elimination Plan
While the confirmation of a PED case is disappointing, Hamblin acknowledges it was not unexpected. The outbreak offers an opportunity to test the province’s PED elimination plan under real-world conditions.
“Our industry has worked hard to implement prevention measures outlined in the plan,” she says. “This is a test of those efforts and our ability to respond effectively.”
Key Components of the Plan
The Manitoba PED Elimination Plan is built on lessons learned from previous outbreaks, incorporating strategies such as:
- Enhanced Surveillance: Routine testing in high-risk zones to detect and contain the virus early.
- Strict Biosecurity Protocols: Recommendations for all producers in affected areas to tighten protocols, including vehicle and equipment sanitation and limited barn access.
- Industry Collaboration: Close coordination between producers, veterinarians, and Manitoba Pork to ensure rapid communication and response.
Call to Action for Producers
Hamblin stresses the importance of vigilance and adherence to biosecurity measures across the province. “The industry has worked tirelessly to implement prevention measures. Now is the time to remain diligent and focused on containment.”
The response to this outbreak will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of Manitoba’s PED elimination plan and inform future strategies for managing swine health risks.
For more updates, visit Manitoba Pork or contact your veterinarian with any concerns about PED.
