
The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) has received an overwhelming response to its recent call for research proposals aimed at enhancing the swine industry’s defenses against H5N1 influenza. In a collaborative effort involving the Swine Health Information Center, the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, and the Pork Checkoff, a total of 51 research proposals were submitted in response to the call issued in November 2024.
Addressing Emerging Threats in Animal Health
The call for proposals was initiated due to the emergence of the H5N1 Influenza A clade 2.3.4.4b strain, which has already impacted dairy cattle, caused persistent outbreaks in commercial poultry, and was recently identified in a backyard pig in Oregon. This situation has raised concerns about the potential spread of H5N1 within the U.S. swine herd and underscored the need for proactive measures to safeguard the industry.
Dr. Lisa Becton, Associate Director at the Swine Health Information Center, explained the rationale behind the call for research:
“Any type of researcher was eligible to submit a proposal, with the request that each proposal demonstrate clear value and benefit to the U.S. pork industry. Our priorities included areas such as vaccine development, diagnostics, transmission risks, and biosecurity. We were particularly focused on examining clinical presentations in pigs—whether they might show similar symptoms to those seen in cattle—and ensuring the continuity of business within the industry.”
Diverse Participation and Focus Areas
The 51 proposals received came from 35 different institutions across six countries, including the United States and Canada. The applicants represented a wide range of sectors, including academic institutions, private companies, and government agencies.
“These proposals cover a variety of critical areas,” Dr. Becton noted. “We are looking at projects that span anywhere from 12 to 24 months in duration. Typically, the findings emerge when the proposals are completed, though there may be interim results available as the research progresses.”
Key focus areas include:
- Vaccine Development: Exploring new vaccines and improvements to existing ones to prevent H5N1 in swine.
- Diagnostics: Enhancing detection capabilities to quickly identify infections in pigs.
- Transmission Risks: Understanding how H5N1 might spread between species, including from birds to swine.
- Biosecurity and Safety: Assessing risks to both pork safety and human safety, along with strategies to maintain business continuity.
Looking Forward
The response to this call for proposals highlights the critical need for research in addressing H5N1 influenza risks. With the involvement of diverse institutions and researchers, the outcomes of these projects could significantly bolster the U.S. pork industry’s ability to prevent and respond to potential outbreaks.
For full details on this call for proposals and ongoing updates, visit swinehealth.org.