BioSec Bob here on Saturday, May 9, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
Times-Citizen Communications is reporting that pseudorabies has been detected at a hog farm in Hardin County, Iowa. The discovery marks an active case of the virus in the state’s swine herds. Pseudorabies, also called Aujeszky’s disease, spreads through direct contact and respiratory secretions and causes reproductive failure, neurological signs, and death in infected animals. State veterinary officials are working with the affected operation on containment and depopulation protocols. Producers in the region should review biosecurity measures and monitor their herds closely for any signs of illness.
On a brighter note, the National Pork Board has launched a new Swine Health Advisory Committee, according to Pork Business. The committee will be producer-led and focused on identifying emerging health challenges and developing strategy around surveillance and response. The move reflects the industry’s shift toward putting working farmers at the center of disease management decisions rather than leaving it solely to veterinarians and researchers.
Out of the Midwest this morning, the Swine Health Information Center released its five-year program review covering 2021 through 2026, and American Ag Network is reporting the numbers show a strong return on producer investment. The center, which is funded through pork checkoff dollars, documented how its research and surveillance programs have generated disease intelligence that’s prevented costly losses across multiple herds. The review quantifies both the direct funding committed and the measurable outcomes in terms of disease detection and management.
Switching to trade, National Hog Farmer confirms that U.S. pork muscle cuts remain unaffected by Mexico’s recent restrictions tied to pseudorabies virus concerns. Mexican officials have tightened import protocols on certain pork products from affected U.S. regions, but whole muscle cuts—like loins and hams—continue to move across the border without additional barriers. Processors and exporters should verify their product classifications with customs to ensure compliance, as processed and organ meat categories face stricter scrutiny.
Moving to global disease monitoring, Dominica News Online reports that the Caribbean island nation recently hosted a regional African swine fever surveillance exercise. The drill brought together veterinary officials and farmers from across the region to test detection, reporting, and response protocols. With ASF active in parts of the Western Hemisphere, these coordinated drills help smaller producers and island operations prepare for potential incursions.
Finally, 3tres3.com is reporting that foot-and-mouth disease and African swine fever have driven significant losses for pig farmers in South Africa. The dual disease pressure has forced widespread culling and trade restrictions, hitting producers hard as both diseases carry severe economic consequences and trade implications across the continent.
Stay vigilant on your biosecurity — disease pressure is real on multiple fronts.