Dakotas Vets Warn of Pig Virus Spread

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — State veterinarians in the Dakotas are stressing the need for people involved in the hog industry to take measures to guard against the spread of deadly pig viruses.

South Dakota veterinary officials this week said two more farms have confirmed cases of Swine Enteric Coronavirus Diseases, bringing the state total to 38 farms. Most of the cases in the state are the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus, which has killed millions of pigs in the U.S.

South Dakota State Veterinarian Dustin Oedekoven says the virus is easily spread, and producers have to consider all potential contamination threats.

North Dakota has had only one case of the PED virus. State Veterinarian Susan Keller says it's important that producers take precautions such as keeping barns, clothing and vehicles clean and disinfected.