Swine Influenza

Swine influenza usually causes high morbidity but low mortality. In many cases, swine show no signs of illness. Animals are typically symptomatic 1–3 days after infection. If you see any of these signs in your swine, contact your veterinarian and isolate the sick animal(s) from the rest of the herd, if possible.

Here's what to look for:

• Coughing (sounds like barking)
• Sneezing
• High fever
• Difficulty breathing
• Runny nose
• Not eating
• Lethargy
• Red or inflamed eyes

IAV-S is spread mainly through close contact, coughing, and sneezing. Contaminated objects (such as farm equipment) can indirectly spread the disease. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted through food and present no food safety concerns.

Vaccinate your pigs. Vaccinating your herd for influenza A with a commercially available or autogenous influenza vaccine can reduce clinical signs and virus shedding (though viruses can change rapidly, and vaccination may not provide full protection against a modified strain).

Practice good biosecurity and hygiene. Good practices include:

• Permit only essential workers and vehicles onto your farm.
• Avoid visiting other livestock farms.
• Do not share equipment or vehicles with other farms or between healthy and sick animals.
• Clean and disinfect items that may carry the virus from one location to another (such as shoes, clothes, and vehicles).
• Shower in and out.
• Purchase animals from reputable sources and document their origin.
• Isolate and monitor new animals or animals returning from exhibitions.
• Use appropriate cleaning and disinfection products and protocols.
• Consider getting a seasonal flu vaccine.

Prevent the spread of IAV-S at fairs and other events. Follow guidelines from the National Assembly of State Animal Health Officials, the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to minimize influenza transmission at swine exhibitions.

Some actions you can take include:

• Don't eat or drink or put anything in your mouth in the swine barn or show area.
• Don't take toys, pacifiers, cups, bottles, strollers, or similar items into the pig barn or show area.
• Wash your hands often.

Isolate sick animals from the rest of the herd and contact your veterinarian to provide supportive care.