The Journal of Swine Health and Production (JSHAP) publishes articles on applied research and management techniques focused on improving our scientific knowledge and care of pigs. The journal is very fortunate to have a rich diversity of manuscript submissions with respect to genre1 as well as authorship. We receive manuscripts from all over the world, which provides the JSHAP readership not only with North American perspectives, but also with international research topics, case reports, and management methods on a range of issues including reproductive management,2 pig welfare,3 and important worldwide industry diseases such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus.4 This issue of JSHAP is an excellent example of the international diversity of our manuscript submissions: it contains two manuscripts from the United States, one from Canada, and one from Viet Nam. JSHAP is also fortunate to have exceptional editorial board members and an excellent pool of reviewers who bring international knowledge and experience to the peer-review process.
In my opinion, the international scope of JSHAP articles is very valuable for the growth and improvement of the swine industry worldwide. But with such diversity can come some challenges, and one such challenge is the differences in pharmaceutical (in particular antimicrobial) usage around the world for swine production. And I am sure I do not need to remind JSHAP readers that the use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals has received increased attention worldwide, and the public and media are becoming more engaged in the conversation. While most of us involved in this industry have an understanding and appreciation of the international differences in laws and regulations surrounding medication usage in swine, it is difficult for every author and every reviewer to know every law and every rule with respect to medication usage around the world. For this reason, I respectfully encourage all JSHAP readers to take this diversity into consideration when reading a publication in JSHAP (or any journal for that matter) involving medication usage or management recommendations.
In upcoming issues, JSHAP will be including a disclaimer statement along with such manuscripts to remind authors, readers, practicing veterinarians, researchers and consultants that anyone using these products must use their own best judgment and current information provided by the manufacturer prior to using a product. The same precaution should also be employed when considering a management strategy, to consider local laws and regulations prior to making any recommendations. This is especially important to keep in mind, as some articles may contain information on medication(s) or management techniques presented under a research setting or may be from research conducted in a country with different regulations.
References
1. O’Sullivan T. Manuscript genres. Editorial. J Swine Health Prod. 2013;21:183.
2. Boyer PE, Almond GW. Use of altrenogest at weaning in primiparous sows. J Swine Health Prod. 2014;22:134–137.
3. Tenbergen R, Friendship R, Cassar G, Amezcua MP, Haley D. Investigation of the use of meloxicam post farrowing for improving sow performance and reducing pain. J Swine Health Prod. 2014;22:10–15.
4. Holtkamp DJ, Kliebenstein JB, Neumann EJ, Zimmerman JJ, Rotto HF, Yoder TK, Wang C, Yeske PE, Mowrer CL, Haley CA. Assessment of the economic impact of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus on United States pork producers. J Swine Health Prod. 2013;21:72–84.
Terri O’Sullivan, DVM, PhD
Executive Editor