The Australian Veterinary Assocation has been monitoring the international outbreak of swine flu and has issued a media release to inform the public about the important veterinary aspects of the outbreak. At this stage it is a human health issue. 

About Swine Influenza and pigs

Swine Influenza is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus. Influenza in pigs is characterised by high morbidity and low mortality.

Swine influenza in pigs occurs in most other pig-producing countries in the world, and is considered endemic in the United States of America and Mexico.

Internationally pig influenza outbreaks occur year round and many countries routinely vaccinate swine populations against Swine Influenza.

Although normally Swine influenza viruses are species specific sometimes swine influenza will cause disease in people.

International outbreaks and sporadic infections in people (swine to people) have been reported occasionally in the past, but rarely has infection been reported to spread from person to person.

Is Swine Influenza in Australia?

No. Australia is free of swine influenza. Swine influenza in pigs has never been reported or detected in this country.

For more detailed information please visit the full AVA Campaign Release