The United States (US) is currently experiencing an outbreak of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED), a viral disease that affects pigs. This is the first time the disease has been identified in North America and has been found in several states. The investigation is ongoing and at this time the possible source of the disease has not been identified.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is committed to protecting human and animal health and is in contact with the US Department of Agriculture about the situation in the US.
PED does not pose a human health or a food safety risk. The disease is known as a production limiting disease and is associated with diarrhea and vomiting in pigs. It can cause significant disease and death in younger pigs in herds that have not previously been exposed to the virus. PED is not a reportable or immediately notifiable disease in Canada.
PED was first found in England in 1971 and has since been found in other countries in Europe and in Asia. PED has never been found in Canada.
The CFIA maintains strict import controls to limit the potential risks to Canadian livestock from disease outbreaks in other countries. The virus is generally transmitted from an infected pig to another or through the movement of equipment or other things contaminated with the virus. Producers are encouraged to strengthen their biosecurity measures on farm and should consult their veterinarian if their animals are exhibiting signs of illness.
The CFIA in collaboration with provinces, industry, the veterinary community and other stakeholders will continue to monitor the situation in the US.
