Georgia has first PEDv confirmation at livestock show

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  Andrea Gantz

  Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus has reached Georgia for the first time as cases were confirmed at a livestock show.

  From WATTAgNet:
  The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) has reported the state’s first known cases of porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) virus. Results from two samples from pigs at the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show held February 18-21, tested positive for PED virus on February 27.
  GDA immediately responded with biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the disease. The locations of where the positive samples came from have been visited and animal movement has been controlled.
  GDA stated it is working closely with other animal industry partners to provide information about biosecurity, disease prevention and control. The agency also is encouraging people to limit travel and commingling with other swine associated events or personnel.
  PED virus was first confirmed in the United States in May 2013. To date, PED virus is estimated to have killed up to eight million young pigs across the nation. With the confirmation of PED virus in Georgia, 33 states have reported cases of the virus that can have up to a 100 percent mortality rate in piglets. Prior to the discovery of PED virus in Georgia, Hawaii became the newest state to report an outbreak of PED virus, having reported the virus reached the state in November 2014.