CDC: ‘Swine’ Flu not from Pork

Misconception bad for pork producers, diners

April 28, 2009 — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today reaffirmed that what it calls “human swine flu” can’t be transmitted by eating pork.

The misconception over how the virus spreads stems from terminology, Acting CDC Director Richard Besser acknowledged in a 45-minute media call. Although the strain linked to at least 149 deaths in Mexico and five hospitalizations in the United States has been termed “swine flu,” its components originated in pigs, birds and humans.

“The misconception … is not helpful to pork producers, it is not helpful to people who eat pork,” and it isn’t helpful to sick people trying to determine the source of their illness, Besser said.

As with seasonal influenza, the current swine flu outbreak passes from person to person through sneezing and coughing.

Learn more about how the virus spreads and proper pork handling and cooking techniques.

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