H5N1 in backyard pigs reveals disease control concerns

A recent case of H5N1 in pigs and poultry on an Oregon farm has highlighted significant concerns about disease transmission and biosecurity on small lifestyle farms, while emphasizing the unique role pigs play in potential viral mutations.

February 23, 2025

Pigs Piglets On Farm

Iuliia Lototska | BigStock.com

A recent case of H5N1 in pigs and poultry on an Oregon farm has highlighted significant concerns about disease transmission and biosecurity on small lifestyle farms, while emphasizing the unique role pigs play in potential viral mutations.

Dr. Ryan Scholz, Oregon state veterinarian, documented the state’s first case of H5N1 in pigs in October 2024, when a small farm experienced an outbreak that began in waterfowl before spreading to pigs housed on the property.

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