Pseudorabies Response Update
APHIS Lifts Movement Restrictions Within the 5-Mile Surveillance Zone in Iowa
Following the April 30, 2026 confirmation of pseudorabies in a small commercial herd in Iowa, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in coordination with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), has lifted movement restrictions within the five-mile surveillance zone after all premises completed round one testing with no further detections. The two-mile surveillance zone around the index herd remains active, and movement restrictions within that zone continue.
All animals from both the Iowa index herd and the non-commercial source herd in Texas have been depopulated and properly disposed of. All herds with direct exposure to these positive sites have been identified, and epidemiological investigations and diagnostic testing of these sites are ongoing. No additional commercial sites have been identified as having direct exposure to the commercial site in Iowa or the source herd in Texas. Cleaning and disinfection of the Iowa premises were completed on May 12, 2026.
Premises within the two-mile surveillance zone, along with all exposed herds, must complete a second round of testing 30–60 days after the affected site is cleaned and disinfected. This testing is scheduled to occur between June 12 and July 11, 2026. Until negative results from this second testing round are confirmed, movement restrictions for exposed herds and all swine premises within the two-mile zone will remain in place.
Key Information
- Pseudorabies testing in the five-mile surveillance zone is complete with negative results. APHIS and IDALS have lifted movement restrictions for premises in this zone.
- The affected site remains under quarantine pending a 30-day fallow period and completion of the second round of testing for all exposed herds and all swine premises in the two-mile surveillance zone.
- Strong biosecurity practices are the best defense for producers to protect their herds from pseudorabies and other diseases of concern.
This detection does not pose a risk to consumer health or affect the safety of the commercial pork supply. There may be limited, short-term impacts on exports of U.S. swine, swine genetics, and certain animal products. USDA continues to work closely with trading partners to clarify and mitigate these impacts. Pseudorabies is a contagious viral disease of livestock and other mammals. However, pigs are the only natural hosts. While pseudorabies virus can infect most mammals, humans, horses, and birds are considered resistant.
APHIS and IDALS appreciate producers’ continued cooperation and adherence to strong biosecurity practices. We are committed to supporting producers throughout this process and ensuring the continued security of the nation’s agricultural systems.
For questions, please contact your USDA APHIS Veterinary Services Area Office.
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