CSHIN Quarterly Report

When it comes to keeping pigs healthy in Canada, communication and collaboration are key. That’s where the Canadian Swine Health Intelligence Network (CSHIN) plays a vital role. This national network helps swine producers and veterinarians stay informed about emerging diseases and health challenges affecting pigs across the country.

CSHIN is a national organization that gathers and shares information on swine health. Its main goal is to provide regular updates on swine diseases, helping pig farmers and veterinarians respond quickly to potential threats. By analyzing reports from different regions, CSHIN creates a big-picture view of swine health in Canada.

Why is CSHIN Important?

Pork producers work hard to raise healthy pigs, but diseases can still arise. By having a national network that collects and shares health data, CSHIN helps farmers and veterinarians detect and manage swine diseases more effectively. This not only protects animal health but also ensures the continued production of high-quality pork for Canadian consumers.

How Does CSHIN Work?

CSHIN operates by bringing together experts from across Canada. Four regional networks report their findings to CSHIN:

• OAHN Swine – Ontario
• RAIZO – Quebec
• CWSHIN – British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba
• Atlantic Network – New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland

These regional networks gather information from veterinarians, laboratories, and swine health specialists. The data is then shared with CSHIN, which meets four times a year to discuss trends and emerging issues. The Canadian Pork Council (CPC), the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians (CASV), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) also participate in these discussions.

Where Does the Information Come From?

CSHIN collects data from multiple sources, including:

• Swine veterinarians who monitor pig health on farms
• Laboratories that test for diseases
• Provincial swine health networks

By analyzing this data, CSHIN can identify disease trends and alert producers and veterinarians to potential risks.

The Value of CSHIN for Pork Producers

For pork producers, staying ahead of disease threats is crucial. Thanks to CSHIN, they receive timely and accurate information that helps them make informed decisions about herd health. This proactive approach reduces disease outbreaks, improves pig welfare, and strengthens Canada’s pork industry.