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New research shows flies can transmit PEDv, Senecavirus A

Researchers have gone a step further in showing flies can infect pigs with devastating diseases.

In 2003, doctors Scott Dee, Satoshi Otake, and others proved that Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome—commonly called PRRS virus—could survive in and be spread by houseflies.

Gene Spellman with Central Life Sciences says new research led by Iowa State University shows flies can also transmit PEDv and Senecavirus A.

“What this means long-term for producers is that maybe (flies) have been overlooked.  Flies don’t read our biosecurity manuals.”

He tells Brownfield fly control should be included in biosecurity plans.

To that end, Central Life Sciences has developed an insect growth regulator product Spellman says can reduce fly populations by 99 percent.

“With this product, Clarifly, it’s convenient, there’s no labor involved.  You put it in the feed, it passes through into the feed, into the manure where the flies lay their eggs.”

Spellman says Clarifly effectively breaks the life-cycle of flies by eradicating the larvae.

The larvicide can also be used to protect against gnats and Indian meal moths.