H1N1 CONFIRMED IN PIGS IN MINNESOTA
News Date October 20, 2009
The 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus presence has been confirmed in a pig sample by USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL), according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Late last week, samples collected at the 2009 Minnesota State Fair by the University of Minnesota were discovered while undergoing a research project funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). USDA officials immediately assured consumers, both international and domestic, that these findings do not endanger food safety. "We have fully engaged our trading partners to remind them that several international organizations, including the World Organization for Animal Health, have advised that there is no scientific basis to restrict trade in pork and pork products…Pork is safe to eat." For further information regarding USDA’S H1N1 efforts, please visit: www.usda.gov/H1N1flu. (Contact: Bob Ehart)