Dr. John Carr, a world livestock consultant, veterinarian, and lecturer, living in Brisbane, Australia reported via email on the International Pig Veterinary Society getting back together after a Covid break. [And now a hot-shot international reporter.]  
At last, after a two-year absence because of COVID-19, the major swine vet meeting on the planet got together. The decision not to have the meeting virtual was difficult but the meeting’s success occurred because of people interaction.  
The pandemic still stalked the meeting with many speakers presenting from lockdowns in their homes. And the meeting was available online through a great interactive web experience. “But … the chats in corridors, fist bumps and hugs between friends and colleagues are invaluable. Meeting in a hotel lobby or Copacabana Beach with a colleague unseen for four years brought a great smile.”  
Dr. Carr said the meeting had no gap in time; as soon as the meeting started the vigour of science was back in play with presentations, discussion, disagreement and agreements back and forth, back in
full play.  
“This is the only way we can move towards excellence in providing the best man can offer the pig.” 
The key point he got out of the meeting was a movement toward a safe African Swine Fever vaccine. While ASF was significant, the care and management of the hyper prolific sow to the individual sick pig are equally important.  
“The next 30 years is the challenge for mankind to create a sustainable food source for the 10 billion people who will all love and rely on pork as a protein source and the IPVS will rise to the challenge.” 
The International Pig Veterinary Society (IPVS) is an association of pig health and production specialists. The IPVS started in 1967 with the first Congress held in Cambridge, the United Kingdom in 1969 and the second in Hannover, Germany in 1972.   
The Society’s objectives are to hold international congresses for the exchange of knowledge related to pig health and production and promotion the formation of Pig Veterinary Societies in all pig-producing countries and the rise in cooperation between such societies.  
The Brazilian pig industry has changed dramatically in the last couple of years. Brazil is the 4th largest producer and exporter of swine in the world.  
Dr. Carr said the three takeaways from the international Congress to benefit hog producers are the possible ASF vaccine and gilt management for lifetime performance. 
A third takeaway focused on porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3), an emerging swine pathogen. 
“PCV3 changed the ear position in piglets – which I did not believe, but the presentation was interesting.” •
— By Dr. John Carr and Harry Siemens