Question: "We raise pasture pigs and are confused by reports of swine flu. Should we be concerned for our animals and ourselves?
Answer: Most people are aware that the influenza virus is a matter of change. That's why humans are offered vaccinations for the flu with a new strain of virus every year. Not only does the virus change within a species, but it has been known to 'jump ship' and infect new species, such as with the avian flu in Asia a few years ago. There are many species of animals that are susceptible to the influenza virus, including humans, swine, birds, (domestic poultry, ducks, geese, etc.), dogs and horses. Scientists have determined that this new flu outbreak has multiple genes in common with swine, avian and human flu.
There has been some suggestion that the first cases in Mexico were related to people who were working or living near large swine operations. There's no direct evidence, however, that these people contracted the virus from infected swine. As of this writing, there have been no reported cases of swine in the United States infected with this particular strain of the virus. If you maintain a closed herd of pigs (not bringing in any new animals from outside sources), you shouldn't be unduly concerned that your pigs will get infected.
....Pastured-raised swine are generally less immunologically stressed than those raised in indoor, close-confinement operations. Infectious diseases and parasites travel more rapidly in confinement units, as well. At this printing, the USDA and CDC haven't proven that the H1Ni strain is transferred from pigs to humans or vice-versa....."
by Dianne Hellwig, Phd, DVM with Dr. Lyle G. Mc Neal,
Hobby Farms magazine, July-August 2009 http://www.hobbyfarms.com/
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