Working Safely with African Swine Fever Virus

Jun 30, 2022

Abstract: Working Safely with African Swine Fever Virus
Risk assessment is the cornerstone of working safely with biological agents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Laboratory Biosafety Manual Fourth Edition Monograph on Risk Assessment provides stepwise guidance for carrying out a risk assessment, from gathering information and identifying hazards to evaluating the risks and developing and implementing controls and review. To support the development of a mature safety culture within laboratories, it is important that all staff who handle biological agents understand the process of risk assessment and receive training in identifying hazards and mitigating risk. All personnel can partake in risk assessments, and the guidance is written in such a way that it is applicable to all-not just to biosafety professionals, laboratory scientists, or facility managers.

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Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.