US pork producers urged to plan for flu season

US Pork Checkoff is advising producers, farm personnel and others who have contact with pigs to get the seasonal flu vaccination as soon as possible to help protect human and pig health.

The US Department of Health and Human Services says the influenza vaccine supply is plentiful this year. As a general guideline, it is recommended for all people over the age of six months.

Dr Lisa Becton, director of swine health for the Pork Checkoff, says it's always wise for producers and swine farm workers to reduce the risk of getting sick and bringing the flu to the farm or workplace by getting vaccinated. And she recommends that operations modify their sick-leave policies to encourage workers to stay away from the farm if they are suffering from acute respiratory infections. She warned that people may remain contagious from three to seven days after the illness subsides.

Also, good building ventilation and good hygiene will help reduce transmission of flu viruses. And to prevent pigs and humans from other species' influenza viruses, Becton says, producers also should look at bird-proofing their buildings, protecting feed from birds and enforcing biosecurity practices, such as the use of farm-specific clothing and footwear.