Swine Influenza
novel strain
Important: For information about Swine Flu A(H1N1) in humans go to the Ministry of Health website. 
Anyone who suspects swine influenza is present in their pigs should ring the MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) Exotic Disease and Pest Emergency Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 at any time of the day or night.
Swine influenza is classified as an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993.
Signs of swine influenza in pigs
Signs of swine influenza in pigs are very variable and may include sudden onset of fever, depression, coughing (barking), discharge from the nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulties, eye redness or inflammation, and loss of appetite.
On farm biosecurity
Everybody who owns or works around pigs should be on the lookout for symptoms of disease. Always consult your vet if you suspect something unusual.
Maintain effective on-farm biosecurity, particularly around visitor access to farms and pigs:
- All persons, vehicles and equipment that enter a pig farm where possible must have had no contact with other pigs or their housing for 24 hours before they enter a pig farm.
- Wash hand and footwear when entering a premises or use protective clothing
- People in contact with pigs should be vaccinated each year for seasonal influenza
- Keep people who are showing signs of influenza away from pigs
- Keep a register of movements of people, vehicles, equipment and materials moving onto or off your premises
Protecting New Zealand from Exotic Pests and Diseases
Recommended Minimum Farm Biosecurity Standard for Pork Producers
Good Biosecurity practices for livestock on farms 
(157 KB)- how you can reduce the risk of animal disease on your property
It is important to look after the welfare of your animals at all times. For more information about animal welfare visit: http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/animal-welfare
Page last updated: 13 October 2010