IOWA (KCRG) – The USDA has confirmed cases of pseudo-rabies in swine herds in Iowa, and the state says it’s working quickly to address the issue. The disease can be dangerous for piglets and sows, causing reproductive issues, nervous system issues and death. Pseudo-rabies was eradicated from commercial herds in 2004, but it’s still found in wild populations, so domestic pigs can be exposed.
Officials say a facility in Iowa got swine from Texas recently, and the Texas herd has contact with feral pigs. Iowa officials say this is not a food safety concern and there is no threat to the general public.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said Thursday, “Based on the confirmation of the pseudorabies virus in a small commercial swine herd in Iowa, we are moving decisively to eliminate the disease. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has spent years preparing for these types of animal health events, and we have a strong, capable team in place to respond. We appreciate USDA APHIS, the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Diagnostic Laboratory, pork producers and our industry partners for working together on this coordinated response.”
“Iowa’s hardworking farmers lead the nation in pork production,” Naig said. “It’s important for people to know that pseudorabies is not a food safety concern, and this virus does not pose a risk to consumers. The United States’ pork supply remains safe and secure, and we are committed to protecting animal health.”
