BioSec Bob here on Saturday, May 16, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
DVM360 is reporting that pseudorabies has returned to US commercial swine operations. The virus, which was declared eradicated from domestic herds back in 1989, is now confirmed in commercial facilities. This marks a significant shift in disease status for the industry and comes with serious implications for herd health protocols and testing requirements moving forward. Veterinarians across affected regions are being alerted to monitor for clinical signs including neurological symptoms, reproductive failure, and sudden mortality in affected animals.
Over in Iowa, producers are getting some relief on movement restrictions. Pork Business reports that pig movement restrictions have been lifted within the five-mile surveillance zone established after previous disease concerns. The lifting of these restrictions allows producers to resume normal marketing and transport operations in that perimeter, though biosecurity protocols and surveillance monitoring remain in place. It’s a measured return to normal operations as the situation continues to be tracked.
Shifting to the poultry side, the University of Minnesota’s CIDRAP center is reporting a significant uptick in Salmonella cases tied to backyard poultry flocks. Fifty-four people have been hospitalized across multiple outbreaks linked to contact with backyard chicken and duck operations. The CDC and state health departments have launched investigations into affected flocks. Backyard poultry keepers are being reminded about hand hygiene and proper handling protocols, particularly for families with young children and elderly household members.
On the border, Canada’s CFIA is warning producers of confirmed US outbreaks of pseudorabies in commercial swine. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued the alert to keep domestic producers informed of disease activity south of the border and the potential trade implications that follow. Cross-border disease monitoring remains critical as both countries coordinate on surveillance and response.
Moving to market dynamics, WATTPoultry is reporting that McDonald’s has doubled its chicken focus in response to rising beef and fuel costs. The company is shifting menu composition and supply chain emphasis toward poultry products as input costs and commodity pricing reshape their sourcing strategy. That shift in demand from one of the largest quick-service restaurant operators carries real weight in the poultry market.
And rounding out the week, National Hog Farmer notes that pork policy is in volatile territory right now, with disease outbreaks, trade considerations, and market consolidation all weighing on the policy conversation at once. The combination of pseudorabies resurgence, international trade dynamics, and market structure questions have created a complex environment for producers and policymakers alike.
Keep your biosecurity audits current — this is not a quiet moment.