A newly released study by the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC), in collaboration with the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research and Pork Checkoff, examines the economic and epidemiologic benefits of proper sanitation in market haul trailers. Conducted by Iowa State University, the study assesses how different levels of transport trailer sanitation impact the spread of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) and overall herd health.
Key Findings: Trailer Sanitation Reduces Disease Spread
🚛 Decontamination Lowers PEDV Risk – Higher rates of trailer washing significantly decrease virus transmission, reducing outbreaks and economic losses.
📉 Cost-Effective Sanitation Protocols – The study found that washing at least 60% of trailers is an optimal balance between disease prevention and cost-effectiveness in certain production systems.
🌎 Regional Risk Variability – The necessity for intensive sanitation depends on site location and connectivity within a region, meaning high-risk areas may require up to 80% trailer washing to mitigate disease spread.
🦠 High-Prevalence Sites Need More Stringent Measures – In locations with high PEDV prevalence, more frequent decontamination is required to prevent further transmission.
What This Means for Pork Producers
Understanding how disease spreads through transport networks is crucial for risk management, herd health, and economic sustainability. Dr. Lisa Becton, SHIC Associate Director, emphasized the importance of evaluating farm-to-farm transport connections to tailor sanitation efforts based on risk levels.
By implementing science-backed trailer sanitation strategies, pork producers can reduce disease outbreaks, minimize financial losses, and improve biosecurity.
For industry stakeholders looking to enhance transport biosecurity protocols, this study provides valuable insights into cost-effective and risk-based sanitation approaches.
Swine Web will continue to cover advancements in swine health and disease prevention. Stay tuned for further updates! 🚛🐷💨
