There has been a lot of press internationally regarding concerns over the potential for a world-wide pandemic of “swine flu.”  Unfortunately, this term is a misnomer, and many news stations have been using footage of pigs to enhance their story.  This has led to widespread conjecture that one should not consume pork, due to the term “swine flu.”

 The industry has come out swiftly and strongly regarding facts about this strain of influenza.  Yesterday, USDA Secretary Vilsack, the World Health Organization, and President Obama all made public statements trying to quell panic that is starting to build.  This has manifested itself in shaky commodity markets, decreased international travel, and even curtailed purchases of pork from Mexico from some countries.

 Here are the facts:

 ·         According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the flu virus spreading around the world should not be called "swine flu" as it also contains avian and human components and no pig was found ill with the disease so far.

·         A more logical name for it would be "North-American Influenza," a name based on its geographic origin.  "The virus has not been isolated in animals to date. Therefore it is not justified to name this disease swine influenza."

·         The Illinois Department of Public Health reports this morning that there have been no cases of this flu strain reported or diagnosed in Illinois.

ThThere have been no deaths reported in the US associated with this strain of influenza type H1N1 virus.

·         According to the CDC, swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You CANNOT get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe.