MADISON - To continue protecting Wisconsin's pork industry from the spread of a deadly, communicable virus among pigs, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is reissuing a ban on the spring pig weigh-ins that usually take place in preparation for Wisconsin's numerous county fairs.

Dr. Paul McGraw, state veterinarian at DATCP, also recommends only terminal swine shows be held given the concerns regarding the spread of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus, Porcine Reproductive Respiratory Syndrome, and influenza. In addition, McGraw still recommends that fairs hold terminal shows, where pigs go to slaughter after the show. It is completely up to the counties to develop plans locally with locker plants and slaughter facilities to make this work for them.

Swine farmers are encouraged to use proper biosecurity methods, including washing trucks and trailers between loads, washing boots and clothing, and establishing a line of separation between clean and dirty areas. The National Pork Board has developed a wide variety of biosecurity information that is free and available at www.pork.org .

For more information about animal diseases, visit datcp.wi.gov.