Influenza A/H1N1 Outbreak in U.S. (Formerly known as "Swine" Flu)
Overview
First and foremost I think it’s important to say that Iowa’s pigs remain healthy and there is no evidence of this strain of flu in the swine in our state.
Eating pork that is properly handled and cooked is safe.
The State Veterinarian’s office is working with the Iowa Department of Public Health, Federal Veterinarians and those in private practice to have a system in place to monitor Iowa’s pig population for significant disease, and those efforts continue around the current outbreak.
There are no reports of the virus currently causing these illnesses being found in the U.S. swine herd.
In cases discovered in the U.S. so far, the patients report no direct or indirect contact with pigs.
The State Vet’s office encourages pork producers to exercise extra diligence in their long held bio-security practices to continue to protect the health of their animals.
These steps include limiting access to building to only essential works; thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting equipment; and making sure workers are disinfecting their shoes, clothes and hands.
In addition, any workers experiencing flu-like symptoms should be kept from entering facilities
If producers do observe any respiratory illnesses in their pigs, it is important that they do contact a swine veterinarian.
The Department is communicating with veterinarians across the state about the situation as needed through the Iowa Rapid Veterinarian Information Network (IRVIN).
Pork Safe
Eating pork that is properly handled and cooked is safe.
Scientists at USDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated swine flu viruses are not transmitted by food so you cannot get swine flu from eating pork or pork products.
All pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F, which kills all viruses and other foodborne pathogens.
Additional Information
The Iowa Department of Public Health phone line is available for public questions regarding swine flu. The phone number is 800-447-1985.
