BioSec Bob here on Saturday, August 22, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
First up, Michigan’s got a confirmed animal influenza situation. Outbreak News Today is reporting two swine flu cases in the state — both confirmed as influenza A(H1N2) variant virus. That’s the strain that can jump between pigs and people, so the fact that it’s showing up in Michigan herds is something every producer needs to have on their radar, especially those running proximity operations or doing transport.
Over at National Hog Farmer, there’s a wider look at what’s keeping hog producers awake these days. Beyond the flu concern, the farm bill negotiations are still unresolved heading into fall — and that’s creating real uncertainty on crop prices and feed costs going into the fourth quarter. Trade tensions are complicating margins too, and then there’s the screwworm surveillance. That parasitic threat has producers in southern states especially watching their animals closely for any sign of infestation.
Speaking of emerging pathogens in pig herds, foodagribusiness.world is covering the detection of MRV and PAdV in US swine operations. Mink virus and porcine adenovirus — both are being found in American herds now. The reporting doesn’t detail which states, but the fact that both viruses are present in domestic pigs is getting veterinary and industry attention right now as producers and diagnosticians work to understand the scope and impact.
Looking internationally, African swine fever continues to be a serious problem. The Pig Site reports that Poland’s commercial herd outbreaks have tripled so far in 2026 compared to last year — a sharp jump that’s affecting production across that major European pork region. Meanwhile, Hungary’s reporting its second confirmed ASF case in domestic pigs, adding to the ongoing disease pressure across Central Europe.
And in Africa, Kenya’s dealing with significant swine fever losses. 3tres3.com is reporting that over 1,000 pigs died in the Kiambu region from the outbreak — a major blow to local producers and a reminder of how fast disease spreads when biosecurity gaps exist.
Stay on top of your herd health protocols — this is a heavy disease week globally.