Swine Brucellosis Report

Arnold C. Taft, USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services

Four States (AR, FL, LA, and TX) remain in Stage 2 status of the Swine Brucellosis Eradication Program.  All other States are in Stage 3, Validated Swine Brucellosis Free status.

During FY 2001, a total of nine herds in four States were identified as being affected with swine brucellosis: AR-3, LA-2, OK-1, and TX-3.  The nine herds had a total of 905 swine and were depopulated with funds totaling $97,631.11.

To date, in FY 2002 a total of five herds in five States have been identified as being affected with swine brucellosis. GA-1, FL-1, HI-1, N.J.-1, and TX-1.  The five herds had a total of 1013 swine and have been depopulated with funds totaling $134,038.31.  There are no known affected domestic herds remaining in the United States today.

Newly infected herds were disclosed by the following surveillance.  Slaughter testing discovered the New Jersey herd with 717 animals.  First-point testing at markets, testing of high risk herds, and good epidemiology located the other herds.  All except the New Jersey herds were thought to be related to feral/wild swine exposure.

States status for swine brucellosis can be advanced from Stage 2 to Stage 3, Validated Free status, when the following occurs:

1.      A State completes the Qualification period of 2 years with no more than one domestic Swine Brucellosis infected herd being identified;

2.      Domestic swine producers demonstrate an effort to prevent contact with feral/wild swine; and

3.      Free-ranging swine that contact feral/wild swine are considered feral/wild swine.

A national feral/wild swine program is needed in order to declare domestic swine free of swine brucellosis.  Furthermore, the O.I.E states that measures should be implemented to prevent transmission of disease from feral/wild swine.  Such a program should provide the following:

1.      A national budget which provides funds for research on population dynamics and disease management plus aid to State programs;

2.      A staff to coordinate the program;

3.      Minimum guidelines for State programs; and

4.      Educational material and training as needed.

State feral/wild swine programs should be formed that at a minimum provide the following:

1.      An advisory committee;

2.      Authority over any or all management plans;

3.      Population studies;

4.      Disease surveillance;

5.      A separate marketing system; and

6.      An educational program.