Pandemic Flu and Your Livestock

In 2009, a new strain of influenza (2009 H1N1) caused the first influenza pandemic in more than 40 years. The disease primarily affected humans, but transfer of the virus to some livestock species – swine and turkeys – occurred. Most animals were infected following contact will ill people. Prevention is the key to protecting your livestock from these viruses.

2009 Pandemic H1N1 Influenza in Pigs

Pigs can get a number of types of influenza viruses, any of which can cause high rates of illness in pigs, but generally few deaths in the herd. In October 2009, the first case of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus was confirmed in the United States and several other countries. The 2009 H1N1 influenza virus was also found in turkey flocks in Chile, Canada and the U.S.

• The influenza virus is spread by:
  • Close contact with infected individuals
  • Indirectly by contaminated surfaces.
  • Possibly aerosol when in close or confined areas.
• Signs of H1N1 influenza in pigs.
  • Sudden high fever
  • Depression, lack of appetite (going off feed)
  • Coughing (“barking”)
  • Discharge from nose or eyes
  • Sneezing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Eye redness or swelling
• Signs of H1N1 influenza in turkeys.
  • Decline in egg production and shell quality
  • Respiratory signs or mortality may not occur

Prevention Measures

• Monitor animals for illness.
  • Observe animals daily for signs of illness.
  • Sick animals should be isolated as soon as possible.
• Implement strict biosecurity measures on your farm.
  • Restrict access to your property and your animals.
  • Isolate any new or returning animals to your farm before placing them with resident stock.
  • Only allow essential workers and vehicles on your farm.
  • Prohibit visitors near animals unless absolutely necessary.
  • Have all personnel or allowed visitors wear clean footwear (disposable boots) and clothing (coveralls) while on the farm.
  • Clean and disinfect clothes, shoes, equipment, vehicles and hands after contact with animals.
  • Clean vehicles before leaving the farm.
  • Do not share equipment with other farms, unless items have been cleaning and disinfected.

Human Safety

Individuals who care for swine or poultry should take steps to protect themselves from getting the flu or spreading it to animals.

• Get vaccinated with the human flu vaccine.
• Wear protective clothing or equipment when working with animals.
  • Coveralls that can be laundered or disposed or after each use
  • Rubber boots that can be cleaned and disinfected or disposable protective shoe coverings
  • Disposable gloves or heavy duty waterproof gloves that can be disinfected
  • Head or hair covers help prevent contamination of hair if a shower-out facility is not available
  • Masks, especially if working in confined areas or in close contact with animals
• Wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
  • Before and after working with animals
  • After removal of any personal protective clothing
• Avoid contact with animals having signs of flu-like illness.
  • Contact your veterinarian.
• Be aware for flu-like symptoms in yourself or others working on your farm.
  • These include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.
  • Limit contact with other people or animals, especially pigs or poultry.
  • Stay home for 7 days after symptoms begin or until symptom free for 24 hours (whichever is longer).
  • Contact your healthcare provider.