As the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) enters its second decade, the organization remains laser-focused on one mission: protecting and strengthening the health of the U.S. swine herd.
Formed in 2015 following lessons learned from the rapid spread of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) in 2013, SHIC was created to ensure the U.S. pork industry would never again be caught off-guard by an emerging disease threat. The vision was clear from day one — a proactive, not reactive, approach to swine health.
Today, that vision continues under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Megan Niederwerder, who emphasizes SHIC’s commitment to anticipating and mitigating emerging health challenges before they reach the herd or become entrenched.
A Mission Rooted in Preparedness
SHIC’s work focuses on five core pillars:
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Preparedness and response planning
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Coordinated communication across the industry
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Global disease monitoring
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Analysis of swine health data
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Targeted research investments aimed at emerging threats
Dr. Niederwerder notes that SHIC was built to be forward-thinking from the start — designed to identify vulnerabilities, gather intelligence, support research, and position the industry to respond decisively when new risks arise.
Leadership From Across the Industry
SHIC’s strength comes from broad industry involvement. A nine-member board of directors provides governance and oversight, while two specialized working groups — the Monitoring & Analysis Working Group and the Preparedness & Response Working Group — help shape priorities, evaluate needs, and guide research strategies.
Producers, veterinarians, and health experts from across the pork sector contribute directly to SHIC’s direction, ensuring the organization’s activities reflect real-world challenges and industry needs.
Looking Ahead to the Next Decade
As SHIC moves into its next ten years, its foundational purpose remains unchanged: safeguard the U.S. swine herd through science-driven action, proactive planning, and constant vigilance against emerging disease threats.
The organization’s ongoing commitment to preparedness and industry collaboration ensures producers have a dedicated partner working every day to detect, understand, and mitigate the next potential threat long before it reaches the barn.
