PED - Notice to Veterinarians and Pork Producers

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED) is a highly contagious, viral disease of pigs that does not currently occur in Alberta, but is present in the United States. PED causes severe diarrhea and death in suckling pigs and milder diarrhea in older pigs. Any sudden onset of unusual diarrhea should be investigated immediately by a veterinarian.

Due to the economic harm that it could cause to the pork industry if it spreads to Alberta, effective January 20, 2014, I am declaring PED as a reportable disease in the Province of Alberta under the authority of Section 3(b) of the Animal Health Act. As of January 20, 2014, all known or suspect cases of PED occurring in Alberta must be reported to the Chief Provincial Veterinarian (CPV) within 24 hours. Contact 780-427-3448 during regular business hours or 1-800-524-0051 after hours to report.

Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) causes very similar symptoms to PED. It is also reportable in Alberta, although there will be no government response to TGE cases. Lab testing is necessary to confirm the presence of either TGE or PED.
Making PED a reportable disease will help minimize the risk of the disease becoming established in Alberta. The Alberta response will be guided by the Alberta Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea and Transmissible Gastroenteritis Disease Control Plan. In accordance with this plan, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) will provide support to the industry by:

• Testing samples for PED at our lab
• Coordinating the Alberta response for the first few cases, if PED is found in the province
• Communicating with stakeholders
• Working with local veterinarians to provide advice on implementation of biosecurity and disease control measures for affected premises.