Is my potbelly pig in danger? Can I get it from my pet?
USDA reminds anyone who owns pigs about being consistent and thorough in their practices to prevent the introduction or spread of disease.
- If you or anyone else with you has flu-like symptoms, stay away from your pigs.
- Purchase animals from reputable sources and ensure that you have documentation of the animal’s origin.
- Keep your pigs and areas around them clean. If you have been around other animals, make sure that you clean your shoes, clothing and other items.
- And don't forget to wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds before and after handling your pet.
Learn the warning signs of swine influenza in pigs.
- Flu signs in pigs include fever, depression, coughing (barking), discharge from the nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulties, eye redness or inflammation and going off feed.
- If your pigs are showing any of these signs, call your veterinarian.
Last Reviewed: 11/05/2009
Related Questions:
- Do any pigs or swine in the United States have the H1N1 flu virus that has infected humans?
- How do we ensure that we take the appropriate measures to protect our swine from catching H1N1?
- Is USDA testing and monitoring to make sure swine are not infected with the virus and if so, how?
- Does the USDA expect to find the 2009 H1N1 virus in swine in the US?
- What is the USDA doing to keep the 2009 H1N1 virus from infecting swine herds in the US?
