The AASV executive committee has formed an Influenza Working Group to consider issues associated with vaccinating pigs as a method for prevention and control of the H1N1 virus in pigs and people, as well as the need for rapid licensing of vaccines so the industry can respond quickly to changes in the virus and protect both swine and human health.
The Working Group, chaired by Dr. Joe Connor, is charged with 1) generating recommendations and guidelines regarding the vaccination of pigs and people who work with pigs, 2) outlining a suggested process to follow if/when the virus is identified in US pigs, and 3) making recommendations regarding the production and possible stockpiling of vaccine.
The newly-formed group, composed of AASV members representing practitioners, researchers and diagnosticians, replaces the AASV Influenza Committee.