In an effort to prevent porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) virus from spreading into Utah, state officials are requiring all hogs and pigs entering the state to be inspected by a veterinarian. Swine moving into Utah must also have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) that states the pigs have not been exposed to PED virus and did not come from premises known to be affected by PED virus.
According to data released April 23 by the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, no positive cases of PED virus in Utah have been reported.
"PEDv is highly contagious, and therefore aggressive steps must be taken to protect Utah's $200 million pork industry," said Dr. Warren Hess, Utah assistant state veterinarian.
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) is taking this action following the announced requirement by the USDA that any case of PED virus and Swine Delta Coronavirus be reported nationally. In addition, the USDA is requiring the tracking of movements of pigs, vehicles, and other equipment leaving affected premises; however, movements would still be allowed.
Since June 2013 as many as 7 million pigs have died in the United States due to the virus. PED virus was first diagnosed in Ohio in May 2013 and has spread within a year to 30 states with no reliable cure.
