27 The Trusted Source for Canada’s Pork Producers Better Pork | April 2024 Know your health status “Being aware of health risks that manure from your farm may contain (if any) is the first step to minimizing risk,” says Dr. Templeton. While PED can be a devastating disease, particularly in sow herds, it can present in more mild forms in finishing barns, and without specifically testing for PED, farmers may not be aware they have a PED positive site. Dr. Templeton explains that “PED isn’t always obvious in finishing barns, it can be transient diarrhea and ‘off feed’ that can easily be attributed to feed issues or other diseases.” She reminds farmers that a finisher barn break means that there can be a higher concentration of viable PED virus in the environment that can increase the chances of contamination of other sites. If a herd is PED positive, a plan must be established to mitigate the risk of spreading the disease to surrounding sites through manure. Templeton recommends farmers consult their veterinarians to assist with a plan and inform the manure handler of the site status. “If in doubt, find out your health status. Testing is easy,” reminds Dr. Templeton. Be a good neighbour Swine Health Area Regional Control (SHARC) was developed to assist hog farmers in controlling and eliminating diseases like porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) and PED. It is based on the concepts of sharing information to improve decision making and reduce disease transmission risks. Sites are mapped with disease status and an interactive map is available to participants. The program is voluntary and producer driven, and can be used as a key decision-making tool for manure spreading and vehicle transportation during the spring months. “Be a good neighbour and report your site health status to help others make informed farm operational decisions, like whether or not they drive the roads, the manure spreading equipment will be travelling,” says Jessica Fox, manager at Swine Health Ontario. “The results are cumulative and presented in a map format, resulting in a heightened level of disease protection for all swine herds across the province.” SHARC members have access to disease mapping tools, including radius mapping. Data is uploaded daily to help farmers make timely decisions. For more information about SHARC or to register as a producer, email info@swinehealthontario.ca or call 877-668-7675 x1401. Implement proper biosecurity measures “If your site is PED positive you need to make your manure handler aware,” says Dr. Templeton, explaining that SWINE HEALTH ONTARIO For more information or to contact your local sales representative, scan the QR code or call us toll-free 1-833-578-2740. hypor.com MOST EFFICIENT SOW HIGHEST QUALITY PIGLETS VALUABLE FINISHERS Hypor Libra
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTc0MDI3