CROOK COUNTY, Oregon – A pig on a farm in Crook County has tested positive for the bird flu virus. This marks the first time the virus has been detected in swine in the United States.
The pig showed no signs of illness despite the positive test result. Experts say that pigs can become infected with both bird and human viruses simultaneously. This dual infection poses a risk of giving rise to mutated strains that could more easily infect humans.
There is no commercial sale of pork from this farm, sources indicated.
The exact manner in which the pig was exposed to bird flu remains unclear. Earlier this month, state officials detected the virus in poultry on the same farm.
This discovery has sparked concern among state health officials about the potential implications of this pig’s infection.
Please note, readers should consider referring to the Oregon State Department of Health for ongoing updates and information related to the bird flu.