Get a flu jab now, pig farmers advised

This follows a WHO warning that another flu pandemic is inevitable. It “is a matter of when, not if”, according to a Reuters report.

“Although it is spring, the threat of flu is ever-present. In the past couple of weeks, we have had reports of two cases involving units with 2,000-3,000 sows, where flu strains are being investigated,” said Geoff Hooper of Hysolv Animal Health.

“Vets have told me that they see flu in pigs when the pigmen or women are suffering from the disease.

“The pig is regarded as a potential ‘mixing pot’ and the flu virus can at times spread from man to pig and vice-versa.”

Surveys have shown that the pandemic H1N1 strain of swine flu is particularly prevalent in the UK and Ireland, compared with other European countries.

The symptoms include fever, coughing, breathlessness, apathy as well as abortions and returns to oestrus and can be particularly severe when occurring at the same time as PRRS (Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome). Economic losses can be considerable.

There are commonly several strains of swine flu, including H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2, but there is no effective therapy once the virus is circulating in the herd. As in humans, pig farmers should focus on prevention by vaccination.

“The message is quite simple, if you keep pigs you need a flu jab,” said Geoff.