• The PRV Eradication Program has been a model of State-Federal-Industry cooperation. The common goal has been to complete the program in the year 2000. State PRV Advisory Committees have been key components in establishing the approach needed in each state to complete the program within this timeframe. Most State PRV Advisory Committees have been working on a test and removal provision to clean-up the remaining 1200 infected herds. The recently announced USDA proposal is anticipated to provide funding to allow acceleration of the work already being done at the state level. Producers with PRV positive herds would have an opportunity to choose to participate.
  
  
• Under the USDA proposal, PRV positive herds electing to participate would be depopulated with the swine being processed through rendering. This would accomplish the objectives of accelerating the existing PRV Eradication Program and decreasing the number of hogs entering slaughter channels. Acceleration results in additional protection to the majority of U.S. herds that are PRV negative and help prevent reintroduction to previously cleaned-up herds.
  
  
• The PRV Eradication Program acceleration specifics are being developed. The NPPC Swine Health Committee and state-designated producers are providing input into the process. It is anticipated that these specifics will be developed quickly.
  
  
• Producers interested in participating in the acceleration should contact their State or Federal animal health official in their state. A USDA 800 number will be available shortly for further information. The USDA contact until the 800 number is established is Dr. Chester Gipson at 202-720-5193.
  

Contacts at NPPC:
Beth Lautner, D.V.M., M.S., VP Science & Technology, 515-223-2623
Paul Sundberg, D.V.M., Ph.D., Veterinary Issues Director, 515-223-2764

Contact at USDA:
USDA will have an 800 number available the week of December 28.

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