Veterinary Services

The introduction of influenza into pig herds is an ever present risk. The following measures should be implemented to help prevent entry of the virus.

Review bio-security practices

• Influenza can be spread by direct contact between infected pigs, fomite spread (mechanical spread of virus by people, vehicles and equipment) and aerosol spread over short distances.

Control access of people

• Anyone with clinical signs of influenza, or who is in close contact with someone with influenza, should avoid contact with pigs this includes vets and other visitors. Pig keepers must, of course, ensure that the health and welfare needs of pigs under their care are met by suitably skilled staff if they are unable to care for the animals themselves
• People working with pigs known, or suspected to be, infected with influenza should not have contact with other pigs. If this cannot be avoided, you should ensure that there is at least a 48 hour period between contact with the known infected herd and a ‘clean’ herd.
• If a herd is known to be infected with H1N1/09v, personnel working with the infected herd should avoid contact with other pigs if at all possible.
• Do not allow unnecessary personnel onto your pig farm. Keep records of visitors and ensure they follow biosecurity protocols.

Control movement of pigs onto the farm

• Only source pigs from herds of comparable health status to your own.
• Consider additional ways to minimising the risk of influenza virus entry. For example keep new pigs separated from the resident herd for at least 10 days (to monitor for signs of influenza)
• If pigs of unknown health status enter a unit impose a voluntary movement ban of at least 10 days (excluding movements to slaughter) to allow any clinical signs of influenza to develop, even if the unit is exempt from the compulsory 20 day standstill.
• Be vigilant for signs of disease and seek professional advice if clinical signs of influenza are seen.

If your pigs have clinical signs of respiratory disease, you should make buyers aware of their health status.

Download a copy of 'Influenza In Pigs: Code Of Practice' from this page.