DES MOINES, IOWA (RFD News) — Animal health officials are warning that a previously eliminated swine disease has reappeared in the U.S. commercial herd.
Iowa agriculture officials say pseudo-rabies has been detected at a small commercial swine facility. The virus is highly contagious and often fatal in pigs, but despite its name, it is not rabies and does not impact humans.
Officials say the affected pigs recently came from a herd in Texas. The herd was housed outdoors, and investigators believe the virus was likely transmitted through contact with feral swine, where the disease still exists.
Pseudo-rabies was eliminated from the U.S. commercial herd in 2004, though it has continued to circulate in wild hog populations.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says there is no risk to consumers, noting that pork remains safe to eat and the virus does not present a food safety concern.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
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Nearly everyone in the South Texas ag community appears extremely worried about the potential of a New World screwworm epidemic, according to a local veterinarian. RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports.
January 23, 2026 11:56 AM
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Brian Earnest, an animal protein economist with CoBank, shares insights into current demand trends and the challenges facing broiler production.
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Jack Hubbard, with the Center for the Environment and Welfare, shares context and perspective on the controversial letter about Prop 12 circulating in Washington and how a review shows it misled the public.
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While row crops are expected to see softer impacts, analysts say severe weather of this magnitude will not be as kind to cattle producers.
January 22, 2026 11:05 AM
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FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
January 21, 2026 01:03 PM
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