Influenza found in Canadian hog

Ottawa, Ont.

-- The first reported case of the current strain of H1N1 influenza in swine was confirmed in Alberta, Canada.

Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz confirmed the case May 2, adding that it was entirely contained and did not pose a threat to human or animal health.

"[We are] working closely with the provincial authorities and the industry to intensively monitor the Canadian swine herd," he said in a prepared statement. "Canada is committed to full transparency and is sharing the most current scientific information with the international community. We will continue to work with our trading partners to ensure that trade decisions are based on sound science."

Canadian hog producers would continue to have access to the American market, he adds, stating Canadian pork still is safe for consumption.