20 States Now Affected by Pig Virus

A deadly pig virus first reported in North America in May has now affected 20 states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Nebraska became the latest hit by the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) that causes diarrhea, vomiting and severe dehydration in pigs. Piglets are more susceptible to the disease than older pigs. More than 1,500 cases have been reported across the Hog Belt, including Iowa, North Carolina, Minnesota and Oklahoma. The trucking industry that transports livestock is a possible source for the transmission of the disease. Biosecurity guidelines have been issued urging transporters to clean and disinfect vehicles used to carry livestock. Read more (Reuters).