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Wisconsin investigating Seneca Valley virus

Wisconsin’s Ag Secretary says the Seneca Valley virus has been found at some central Wisconsin meat processing facilities.  Ben Brancel tells Brownfield when one pig shows symptoms, the entire lot must be tested.  “We view it as an emergency because until we rule out Foot and Mouth, we can’t take chances.”

The U.S. remains free of Foot and Mouth Disease, but the pork industry is on high alert.

State Veterinarian Dr. Paul McGraw says more than 150 investigations have started since early October, and almost 530 pigs have developed lesions on their mouths and feet similar to FMD. “We’ve got a couple of cull sow slaughter plants.  The primary one has been up in Clark County, and these sows have been coming from all over the place.”

The infected animals have come from as far away as North Carolina and Canada.

And while the traditional hog market has not been affected by the virus, McGraw says following slaughter the meat must be separated until tests are completed.

McGraw wants all signs of the virus reported to state animal health officials.

Brancel tells Brownfield he would like to work with researchers to develop a better and faster test.