mic diarrhea virus (PEDv) is back in full swing. Reports show that as of December 1, 2013, there were 1,512 cases of PEDv in 20 states. “The disconcerting news is that this is an increase of 140 new locations from the week before, which is the largest one-week jump in cases [since the first outbreak May 1],” says Bob Thaler, South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension swine specialist.
The number has since bumped to 22 states.
PEDv is devastating to swine production facilities. It is deadly to newborn piglets and causes adults to get very sick with diarrhea and vomiting. The virus thrives in cold, moist conditions (survives for 14 days in warm weather, 28 days in cold temperatures).
Luckily, PEDv isn’t an airborne threat, but that doesn’t mean it can’t spread easily. A small amount of manure has the power to infect an entire facility. Here are tips to prevent that from happening:
• Make more boot and clothing changes.
• Limit access to your hog facilities.
• Wash and disinfect trucks and trailers more frequently.
• Consider shower-in and out.
Packing plants are PEDv-fests
• Before getting out of your truck, put on a pair of disposable boots.
• After you’re done unloading and just before you’re ready to head home, take off (and throw away) your boots.
When washing, beware!
Many truck washes carry PEDv.
• If there’s any residue from the previous person, it can splash up on you, the truck or trailer, and be carried back to your production facility.
• If you do use a community truck wash, disinfecting the trailer is necessary. Talk with your veterinarian for the best options.
Some people have even gone to the measures of building their own truck wash.
Convenience stores are a threshold.
According to Thaler, there was a study conducted in Iowa where “over 50 convenience store floors were swabbed and tested positive for PEDv.”
• Thaler recommends steering clear of convenience stores if you’re going to your hog facility when heading home. At the very least, change shoes once you get home.
