28 The Business of Canadian Hog Farming Better Pork | August 2024 reassorting, or changing its genetic makeup. And if the virus evolves, it could present with more serious clinical signs in its host. There’s also the risk that, if the virus spreads to hogs, it could evolve and more readily infect humans. That’s why Arsenault reminds producers that “reducing the chances of virus transmission between species is essential to reduce the probability of the virus evolving.” Protecting against infection Biosecurity is the main defence against H5N1. Arsenault says Ontario’s poultry and livestock industry, along with provincial and federal governments, are watching the U.S. situation closely. They are paying careful attention to how the virus is spreading and presenting clinical signs in U.S. dairy cattle. “While we are all learning from this new H5N1 confirmation in livestock, the importance of preventing transmission and infection isn’t new. Biosecurity is more important than ever, especially as H5N1 is detected in wild bird populations across North America,” explains Arsenault. According to Arsenault, minimizing and restricting wild bird exposure to hogs and their environments is the most critical and first step to reducing the risk of H5N1 transmission into Ontario hog barns. Here are seven biosecurity steps pork producers can take to prevent H5N1: Minimize wild bird exposure The presence of wild birds can increase the risk of virus transmission. Something as simple as tracking fecal matter from birds into a barn can increase the risk. That’s why it’s important to discourage the attraction of birds around barns by cleaning up any feed spills or preventing birds from nesting in areas within close proximity to barns. Ponds and freestanding water sources also attract wild migratory birds as ideal areas to rest or stay for long periods of time. Discouraging habitat around these water areas, especially if they are near barns, is another way to minimize wild bird exposure. Dedicate clothing to specific barns A common and effective biosecurity protocol, designated clothing and footwear worn within hog barns, is important to follow. This is especially critical for people moving between barns, so be sure to dedicate separate clothes and boots to each barn. Follow Danish entry protocols A Danish entry is an easy-to-use biosecurity tool that can help reduce the spread of viruses and disease agents. Simply following a few steps each time people enter or exit a hog barn can help prevent H5N1 from entering herds. Remember to always enter and leave the barn only through the Danish entry and follow protocols to allow the barrier to work as an effective biosecurity measure. Prioritize personal protection Protecting yourself, your family, and your employees from any type of influenza or transmittable disease is critical. Some hog illnesses can be spread to humans and humans can also make pigs sick, making good hand sanitizing practices essential. Anyone handling hogs that are sick can also protect themselves by wearing disposable gloves and N95 face masks. Restrict unnecessary movements Since the high-risk periods for transmitting H5N1 are associated with wild bird migration (spring and fall), that makes any animal movement between barns a high risk during those seasons too. Producers should restrict any unnecessary movement, if possible, during this time. If animal movement is unavoidable, consider adding protocols to minimize risk, like isolation areas. Remember, any movement between barns, whether it is human, animal, or tools and equipment, can increase the risk of virus transmission. Reduce multiple species exposure When possible, do not house multi- species together. Separating different types of animals can reduce the risk of exposing H5N1 to a new host species. Take care of yourself If you or anyone working in your barn feel ill, don’t enter the barn. Prioritize taking care of yourself, your family, and your employees. If you are sick and must enter a barn, wear personal protection to minimize the risk of spreading the illness, like an N95 mask and disposable gloves. Keep alert and be proactive Pork producers are encouraged to take protective biosecurity measures and keep informed about the risks of H5N1. Arsenault reminds all farmers to report any sick or dead birds found on their property to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, who may arrange for submission of wildlife for HPAI testing. Phone 1-866.673.4781 or visit cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_submit.php. If producers observe abnormal signs or suspect illness in their herds, they should report to their veterinarian immediately. Veterinarians are obligated to contact their local Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) animal health office if there is a high degree of suspicion of HPAI, or H5N1. The CFIA updates their website frequently to keep everyone informed. For more information, visit inspection. canada.ca and search ‘highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock’ for the latest information on HPAI. Arsenault also reminds all consumers that HPAI is not a food safety concern. “We’re all invested in the health of our hog herds and concerned about the impact an outbreak could have across our value chain,” says Arsenault. “By working together, staying informed, and heightening our biosecurity measures on farms, we can all do our part to reduce the risk of H5N1 detection in livestock.” BP SWINE HEALTH ONTARIO SWINE HEALTH ONTARIO Swine Health Ontario is a leadership team focused on improving and coordinating the industry’s ability to prevent, prepare for and respond to serious swine health threats in the province.
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