Hannah Burlet, Jeff Bergermann – At the 2026 PSC Producer Meetings, Jeff Bergermann from Zoetis discussed how disease can enter a pig barn. The presentation reviewed the disease triangle—susceptible pigs, pathogens and a favourable environment—and explained how biosecurity can help break this cycle. Five main transmission routes were discussed: airborne spread, direct contact, contaminated objects (fomites), ingestion through feed or water, and vectors such as insects.
Practical measures include maintaining herd health and vaccination, reducing pathogen survival in the barn, treating water, heat-treating feed ingredients, keeping feed bins closed, controlling pests, removing deadstock promptly and limiting contact with outside animals. Cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched equipment, footwear and transport surfaces are also important. Although vector transmission is considered less concerning in Canada, insect control remains part of good biosecurity. The key message is to understand what can enter the barn and how it could get there, then take steps to block those pathways.
Hidden pathways for disease (full article) or watch the presentation here.
