Influenza in pigs: how to avoid introducing viruses into farms? | Succeed pig

ANSES advises screening for influenza viruses in incoming pigs

In a notice dated November 13, theNational Health Security Agency (Anses) gives its advice to face the porcine influenza viruses of type Acausing the swine flu. The recommendation Anses’ main screen influenza viruses on the animals entering pig farms. ” THE movement of animals between farmsbut also between regions and countries and/or continentsare major contributors to the spread of these viruses » indicates the agency in a press release.

In particular, these are the young sows which constitute “the source d’introduction the most important” of virus influenza de type A on farms.

Read also: Flu: Better prevention of swine influenza zoonoses

Humans, other sources of introduction of influenza viruses into farms

In its opinion, ANSES emphasizes that the humans “are also a very important source introduction to virus influenza in breeding pigs », the latter being able to be infected by human influenza viruses or avian.

The agency recommends “following the recommendations of the High Authority of Health for vaccination against seasonal flu” of those involved in contact with pigs. Of the protective equipment (masks, glasses/visors, gloves, etc.) are also recommended.

And the Anses advise against to people “presenting flu symptoms » d’enter the farms to avoid co-infections.

Reread: Four recommendations to limit the risks of contamination between pigs and humans

In the event of co-infection with influenza viruses, what are the risks?

Of the new viruses can emerge in the event of pig co-infections by influenza viruses humans or avian. Called “ restockers “, these viruses have Genoa from virus influenza of different originswhich can make them “more virulent or facilitate their transmission to others species », Explains ANSES. THE animal movements infected can also emerge these new viruses.

In response, ANSES suggests “extending […] the SAGA protocol (Active Surveillance of Avian Influenza) » at the swine flu. Because “even if the risk of human-to-human transmission of swine viruses East weak with the viruses currently circulating”, the agency wishes ” strengthen surveillance of influenza viruses in pigs as in humans » et « improve responsiveness » in case of transmission.

Also read: Case of swine flu virus detected in humans in UK