USDA Secretary Vilsack Addresses Avian Flu in Hogs on Oregon Family Farm

Introduction:

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently confirmed that avian influenza has been detected in hogs on a small backyard farm in Oregon. This discovery marks a distinction from the H5N1 strain identified in cattle, reassuring that it poses no immediate threat to large-scale swine operations.

Vilsack Clarifies Virus Variation

Speaking on the incident, Vilsack emphasized that this case involves a different strain of avian flu compared to what has previously affected cattle. “It’s not even the same necessarily compared to what we see in poultry circumstances,” he stated, adding that the infected hogs were identified after testing birds on the farm, which led to additional testing on nearby animals.

Minimal Impact on Commercial Pork Operations

For large-scale pork producers, Vilsack assured that the food supply remains safe and there are no new precautions necessary. He noted, “It’s important to know this happened, but there’s nothing for them to do. Pork producers deal with a variety of viruses on an ongoing basis and are very familiar with managing these situations.”

Ongoing Vigilance During Bird Migration Season

Vilsack acknowledged that bird migration during this time of year increases the potential for virus spread. However, he reassured that the virus in this case appears contained and unrelated to major commercial operations.