As the USDA worked through some of issues surrounding a federal mandate on PEDv/PDCov reporting it became apparent that in order to assist the industry they first needed to clarify and label the different phases of infections. This was done to assist with diagnostic sampling, along with reporting at a state and federal level. The goal was to also create a uniform language for producers, veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories. In order to help producers, veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories classify PEDv/PDCoV the USDA has defined different stages of disease infections.
- Suspect – observation of acute contagious (spreading) watery diarrhea on a farm
- Action items – contact herd veterinarian, complete sampling for diagnostic testing
- Presumptive Positive – No clinical signs but diagnostic tests indict positive animals
- Action items
- Submit diagnostic tests with national premises ID number and other required information to the USDA or state veterinarian
- Confirmed Positive – Positive diagnostic tests and observed clinical signs – based on colonic PCR samples
- Action items
- Submit diagnostic tests with national premises ID number and other required information to the USDA or state veterinarian
- Complete and implement health management plan at infected site
- Provide required documentation to state veterinarian office (this will then be documented and forwarded to the USDA
These definitions are designed to help create uniform terminology for producers, veterinarians and allied industry. It will also help producers understand when and what will be required of them if they experience a PEDv outbreak or reoccurrence.
Other stories in this series by Michigan State University Extension
Source: MSUE