The Association’s series of technical talks on key issues for the pig and poultry production and export sector held a new edition in October titled “Strengthening pig industry health: Update on exotic diseases and responsible antimicrobial management.” International experts from Virbac shared the main advances and challenges in animal health, highlighting its role in sustainability and how innovation, biosecurity, and public-private collaboration are essential to safeguard the industry’s future.
“Prevention is the only sustainable path to fight diseases like ASF”
Dr. Francisco Rodríguez, Global Service Swine Manager at Virbac
Dr. Rodríguez analyzed the global impact of African swine fever (ASF), technological innovations, and the role of biosecurity and the responsible use of antimicrobials.
– What is the current situation of ASF, and what impact has it had globally?
ASF has completely transformed the global landscape of pork production and trade. Its high mortality caused devastating losses, especially in China, where the 2018 outbreak reduced the pig population between 40% to 60%, affecting the global supply and generating losses of more than $100 billion USD.
The crisis reshaped international trade flows and left a clear lesson: Preventing is always cheaper than dealing with a health crisis. Today, global efforts are focused on developing effective vaccines and strengthening biosecurity at all levels.
– What role does innovation play in this scenario?
Innovation is essential: artificial intelligence already supports early diagnosis, data analysis, and real-time hazard detection. Furthermore, precision nutrition, new vaccine formulations, and targeted therapies are strengthening the biosecurity and sustainability standards of the production system.
– What is your assessment of Chile’s potential when it comes to health?
Chile is an example of public-private collaboration. Its status of being free of exotic diseases and application of health zoning strategies are notable strengths. Preserving that status requires consistency, surveillance, and a culture of prevention, which Chile has proven to excel at. In that sense, Chile has enormous potential to consolidate itself as a regional benchmark in safe and sustainable pig production.
– In this context, how important is the responsible use of antimicrobials?
It is a central pillar. In Europe, the trend is towards prevention rather than intervention, with accurate diagnoses and specific therapies. Responsible management must be global, aligning national standards with international requirements for safety and quality.
Mexico: a success story in swine health
Dr. Patzimba Alcántar, Marketing & Technical BU Manager at Virbac Mexico
During her presentation, Dr. Alcántar presented Mexico’s experience in eradicating Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies, a viral infection that primarily affects pigs and can result in significant production losses. Although it has been controlled in several countries, it is still found in some regions of Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America, making the Mexican experience especially relevant.
– How did Mexico manage to eradicate Aujeszky’s disease?
In the 1990s, more than 60% of mechanized farms were infected. A national campaign was implemented that incorporated epidemiological surveillance, vaccination, movement control, outbreak elimination, and biosecurity strengthening. In 2015, after two decades, Mexico was declared free of the disease, opening it up to new export opportunities.
– What is the current PRRS situation and the lessons learned from its management?
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is still a global challenge. It is endemic in Mexico and lowers productivity due to the reproductive and respiratory problems it causes in pigs, directly impacting farms’ profitability.
However, significant progress has been made in diagnosis, control, and prevention, thanks to greater health awareness, strengthened biosecurity, and coordination between the sector’s stakeholders.
– What is the role of collaboration in preventing exotic diseases?
It is absolutely essential. The results can only be sustained when all those involved — authorities, producers, and veterinarians — work together. Chile has also made progress in this area, with active surveillance and a preventive approach.
– How do you see Chile’s potential for sustainable pig production?
Chile has demonstrated a commitment to health and pathogen control. If it maintains this leadership by integrating innovation, cooperation, and sustainability, it will continue consolidating itself as a regional leader in safe and responsible pig production.
