Heightened Biosecurity Measures

In light of the discovery of the circulating H1N1 influenza virus in a group of pigs on a farm in Alberta, now would be a great time for producers to review or initiate a clear biosecurity policy for their farms. Pigs are susceptible to many human flu viruses, therefore steps must be taken to minimize the introduction of a virus onto a farm, by people, by vehicles, and by wildlife such as birds, or other livestock.

The following are heightened biosecurity protocols that may be initiated during this outbreak:

• Ensure all biosecurity protocols are strictly followed
• People should avoid going into pig barns if they have influenza like symptoms (fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, achy or tired) or if someone in their family has influenza like symptoms
• People who work in pig barns should visit their doctor if they develop influenza like symptoms
• Visitors should not be allowed into pig barns, especially if they have recently been to areas where people have been affected by this virus
• If symptoms of swine influenza occur in a herd (coughing, fever, depression, runny nose, off feed) contact your veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and advice.

The pork industry reminds the public that type A H1N1 influenza is not a food safety concern. People cannot catch type A H1N1 influenza from consuming pork or pork products and Canadian pork continues to be safe to eat.