By EVIE DUGGAN, District Vet, LLS Victoria, NSW and Queensland have all reported cases of Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV) in pig herds in the last few months. Producers are reminded to be on the look out for signs of JEV in their pigs and to report any potential cases to their vet or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. Stillbirths, mummified piglets and other birth defects are common signs, as are weak or shaky piglets. JEV can also cause symptoms in horses such as a fever, lethargy, incoordination and difficulty swallowing. While most people who get Japanese encephalitis do not have any symptoms, serious disease does occur in 1 in 250 people, and in rare cases can result in death. JEV is spread by mosquitoes after they bite infected pigs or wading birds. Cases occurring over spring to autumn are expected, as this is when mosquitoes are most active. People cannot become infected by contact with infected animals or people, or by eating the meat of an infected animal. A free JEV vaccine is available for people who live or work in some local government areas, or if you work with pigs. Local government areas of high JEV concern include Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Mid-Western, Orange, Parkes and Weddin. For more information visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/jevaccine If you are a pig producer keen to learn more about biosecurity, improving husbandry practices and boosting your profitability don’t miss the free event hosted by Central Tablelands Local Land Services in Cowra on Tuesday 8 April from 4 – 6 pm. The event is tailored specifically to pig producers, and we welcome specialist consultants Josh Timmer and Janine Price from Scolexia. For further details or to register for the event please contact Emilee Johnstone via emilee.johnstone@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0419 334 077. If you would like further information or to chat about any animal health issues, please feel free to contact your local District Veterinarians: Em Johnstone (0419 334 077) or Evie Duggan (0427 147 939). Or call 1300 795 299
