Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED), a viral disease of pigs, has been confirmed in several swine herds in Canada. Given the hardy and virulent nature of the PED virus, more cases will likely be discovered. PED does not pose a risk to human health or to food safety.

PED only affects pigs and does not pose a risk to other animals. The disease is associated with diarrhea and vomiting in pigs. It can cause significant disease and death in younger pigs in herds that have not previously been exposed to the virus.

PED is not a reportable or immediately notifiable disease in Canada.
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Producers should consult their veterinarians immediately if their animals are exhibiting signs of illness.

To help industry respond to the threat posed by PED, the CFIA is facilitating access to vaccines for emergency use under veterinary supervision, as they become available.
However, vaccination is only one measure to help protect against disease.

Producers are encouraged to remain vigilant and maintain strict biosecurity measures on farm to help protect their animals and their industry.

For guidance on disease prevention on farm, producers can consult the Canadian Swine Health Board’s National Swine Farm-Level Biosecurity Standard.

The CFIA will continue to regularly engage and work collaboratively with industry and provincial stakeholders to provide technical assistance and scientific support where possible in response to this disease.