First case of pig virus in Manitoba

WINNIPEG — It appears a deadly and contagious pig virus has hit a Manitoba farm.

The Chief Veterinary Office of Manitoba is reporting positive samples of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus from pigs on a weaned-to-finish farm.

The office doesn’t state the location of the farm.

The samples have been sent to the National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease in Winnipeg for confirmation.

Officials stress that there is no risk to human health or food safety.

Ontario, which was the first province to report a case of PED on Jan. 22, has 12 confirmed cases.

“The site has been contained and neighbours in the area are being contacted by veterinarians,” Karl Kynoch, chairman of Manitoba Pork, said Thursday.

“All steps are being taken to contain the virus on the farm and an investigation has been initiated.”

The virus is highly contagious, so it’s crucial producers maintain strict biosecurity protocols and contact a veterinarian immediately if animals show signs of illness.

“Strict biosecurity practices can reduce the potential for outbreaks,” says Kynoch. “All trucks and trailers coming onto your site must be properly washed and disinfected. It is your responsibility to make sure that all trailers are clean before they back up to your barn.”