H1N1 (Swine Flu): Impact on Agriculture

By Kim Watson, editor Beef Today


There’s no doubt that the H1N1 virus-- commonly referred to as swine flu-- is impacting agriculture commodities especially pork. Here are some of the headlines and other resources to provide you more information.


Proper Name for Swine Flu

More H1N1 Resources:

Statement by USDA’s Vilsack on Canada Finding H1N1 Flu Virus in Alberta Hog Herd
The finding of the H1N1 flu virus in Canada does not change the situation in the United States where no sign of the virus has been found in the U.S. hog herd, according to a statement released by USDA.

CFIA Reports H1N1 Finding in Alberta Hog Herd
Canadian officials this weekend announced they have found the H1N1 in an Alberta hog herd. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said the safety of the food supply is not affected and Canadian pork continues to be safe to eat.

Market Impact of H1N1

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding H1N1


USDA answers common questions about this influenza virus.

USMEF: Market Access Just Part of Struggle to Maintain Pork Trade
U.S. Meat Export Federation’s global staff provides insights into the global impact the H1N1 virus is having in countries as they work to educate and maintain confidence in the safety of pork.

AgDay: Swine Flu Headlines

Ag economist: Pork industry taking hit from H1N1 Flu Virus
It could take weeks - or longer - before U.S. pork producers recover from export restrictions tied to a worldwide influenza outbreak, says Chris Hurt, Purdue University agricultural economist.

What Pork Producers Need to Know
Information for pork producers to help separate fact from fiction as well as to provide biosecurity information.

USDA’s Vilsack: Urges Trading Partners to Drop Bans Regarding H1N1 Virus
USDA reacts to news that trading partners are blocking U.S. pork.

Top Producer Radio: H1N1 Flu Virus Could Be Long-Term Headache
Hear how Jerry Gulke believes Swine flu, planting progress and acreage indecision issues may play out in the market, and how they will impact your bottom line.

Economist: Grain Markets Shaken by H1N1 Flu Virus
Darrel Good, University of Illinois Extension marketing specialist, explains the impact the virus is having on grain markets.

Smithfield Foods Says Mexico Facility Not Source of Flu
Company fights rumors that one of its facilities in Mexico was the source for the H1N1 virus.



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