Protecting Animals and People - Understanding Zoonotic Disease

Nov 03, 2021

It is a well-known fact that most people do not know where their food comes from or how it is raised or grown. In fact, while there are over two million farms in the U.S., farmers and ranchers make up less than 2% of the U.S. population. This means that most people do not have experience with or a connection to a farm or an understanding of what it takes to produce food. This is where our county fairs, animal exhibitions, and agri-tourism operations help educate people on what farming really is and connect them to agriculture. However, providing people with access to animals does come with some risks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, zoonotic diseases are diseases caused by germs that spread between people and animals. These diseases are quite common but with proper prevention and hygiene, the risk of transmission is low. Michigan State University Extension has partnered with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to create multiple resources designed to help prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. Anyone who works with events or locations that have a people (public) and animal interface will benefit from the developed resources and will be able to utilize them at their operations or exhibitions.

These resources will be highlighted on an informational Zoom webinar on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021 from 1 to 2 p.m. The Zoom platform does not require any additional software or equipment and while there is no cost to participate, attendees must register in order to receive access to the necessary connection link. This educational event will feature speakers from MSU Extension and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, it will include information on planning materials and signage that can be used to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks, social media materials that promote healthy interaction with animals, and educational materials to educate youth in strategies that can be used to bring awareness around the issue of the spread of zoonotic diseases.

Source : msu.edu

Video: PRRS Eradication Strategies - Dr. DeBuse and Dr. Tousignant

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Neil DeBuse from Kalmbach Feeds and Dr. Steve Tousignant from Vaxxinova US discuss PRRS management strategies, recombination risks, whole genome sequencing, and the role of autogenous immunization programs in swine systems. They highlight practical approaches to improving immunity, reducing outbreaks, and advancing PRRS control across production systems. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Being PRRS negative sooner is a real key for eradication because every additional positive week increases production losses and viral exposure risks." - Dr. Neil DeBuse

Meet the guest: Dr. Neil DeBuse is a veterinarian at Kalmbach Feeds with more than 30 years of experience in swine health and production. His work focuses on PRRS control, biosecurity, immunity, and improving production stability across commercial swine systems in the United States and internationally.

Dr. Steve Tousignant is Director of the Swine Business Unit and Technical Services Veterinarian at Vaxxinova US, with a DVM and PhD from the University of Minnesota. His experience combines epidemiology, technical services, and practical immunization strategies designed to support consistent herd performance and long-term production stability. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Swine Inner Circle!