The PED outbreaks amongst the Manitoba hog farms continue according to the latest Manitoba Pork Council Chop Talk with one new case of PED confirmed for 2021 as of November 19 bringing the total number of cases for 2021 to twelve. The latest is a finisher operation in South East Manitoba.  
Case investigations are underway to determine the suspected cause of infection and potential linkages in each outbreak. MPC is working closely with the Manitoba Chief Veterinary Office to assist in the investigation. Positive premises go under biocontainment at the onset of clinical signs. Producers and stakeholders in all regions of the province should review their biosecurity measures with employees. And implement enhanced biosecurity protocols on their premises and when visiting high-traffic facilities.  
“Manitoba Pork keeps the industry informed on any developments. Visit Manitoba Pork’s biosecurity web page and PED webpage for ideas on where producers can improve to protect your operations. Always review any changes with your herd veterinarian to ensure your best protection against PED and other harmful pathogens.” 
High-traffic facilities such as federal and provincial abattoirs and assembly yards have regular contact with many different premises, putting them at a higher risk for contamination. Disease contamination of vehicles returning from these high-traffic sites in Canada or the US can occur. Practicing careful biosecurity when visiting these high-traffic facilities as well as when returning home is critical. 
Biosecurity protocols include: 
•Wearing disposable boot covers before exiting a truck cab, 
•Wear trailer-specific boots, gloves and coveralls before entering the trailer and remove them upon exiting the trailer, 
• Follow Rubbermaid® Protocol
•Do not enter through or exit out, back of the trailer (unless trailer has no side access door); a side door access is strongly recommended, 
•Drivers will handle pigs on the trailer but never walk onto the unloading dock or into the barn, 
•Facility staff should not enter the trailer. If they must proper biosecurity protocols are to be followed, 
•Avoid entering the office or any other area not necessary for the delivery of pigs, 
•Take the same precautions at scrape out as at unloading, 
•Keep hand sanitizer, disinfectant spray and garbage bags in the truck cab for use whenever re-entering the cab, 
•Ensure all livestock trailers have been cleaned, disinfected, and thoroughly dried before arriving on the farm. Baking of trailers is strongly recommended. •
— By Harry Siemens