Please repeat after me. H1N1, H1N1, H1N1. Not s_ _ _ _ flu. Why can’t the national broadcast and print media understand the importance of accurate reporting? Is it just me or are many other farmers also frustrated and annoyed by the popular press as it constantly connects H1N1 to the pork industry?

Has anyone outside of the agricultural community seen that erroneous connection has caused an estimated $15 billion dollar loss to the hog industry? My pork producer friends share that economic conditions were tough enough without the additional burden the unfair association to H1N1.

Fortunately, most of the official information shared by the health sector stresses that people cannot; I repeat, cannot contract H1N1 from eating pork.

For those who want to know, H1N1 is an upper respiratory infection caused by an influenza virus first recognized this past spring. Pigs can actually be infected by influenza viruses and could (usually fairly rare) transmit an infection to hog farmers and veterinarians who work directly with the animals. In reality, hog farmers incorporate high levels of biosecurity management to help prevent bringing such viruses into their herds. Many pig managers receive flu shots to help them avoid infecting their animals, not the other way around.

According to the Mayo Clinic, most cases of flu need no treatment other than symptom relief. If you have a chronic respiratory disease, your doctor may prescribe additional medication to decrease inflammation, open your airways and help clear lung secretions.

High risk groups who should consider receiving H1N1 or other flu vaccinations are folks who are already ill, are younger than 5 or older than 65, are pregnant or have other major health issues. By all means, if you are concerned about the potential of catching regular flu or the H1N1 version, contact someone in the medical profession. However, do not become wary of hogs or pigs due to the paranoia generated by the fear mongers in the national press.

Do agriculture a big favor by promoting the consumption of pork. Meat is an important source of all kinds of vitamins, protein and other nutrients. Besides the fact that pork is good for you as part of a balanced diet, it sure makes the vegetable, fruit and bread look a lot less lonely on your dinner plate. Plus, pork just tastes good.
Finally, grain farmers need to remember that hogs, as well as dairy cows, beef cattle and poultry are our largest consumers of our corn and soybean production. Do yourselves a favor. Remind everyone that the concern is not s_ _ _ _ flu, it is H1N1.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of Farm World. Readers with questions or comments for Roger Bender may write to him in care of this publication.