The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) has joined the newly created Global Infectious Disease Intelligence Consortium (GIDIC). GIDIC was established by the University of Georgia’s Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases to bring together leaders in academic, government agencies, industry, and NGOs who need to be aware of emerging infectious diseases. Designed to provide members with Infectious Disease Intelligence, GIDIC’s vision is that a collaboration of individuals from diverse professional backgrounds will enhance our ability to limit the human and economic damage created by future pandemics. 

“We are delighted to have SHIC as a member,” said Dr. John Drake, director of GIDIC.  “This is an excellent opportunity for us to learn about the industry, and to collaboratively develop strategies to identify future risks of infectious disease spillover into hogs, an important part of our food supply and food security.”

Based in Ames, Iowa, SHIC works with pork producers, academic institutions, and government agencies to protect and increase the health of the United States swine herd through targeted research investments, an awareness of emerging viral and bacterial spillover disease threats, and an analysis of swine health data. SHIC was established in 2015 by the National Pork Board, in response to the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) outbreak in the United States. SHIC is guided by its director, Dr. Paul Sundberg, and a board of directors that includes swine industry executives and veterinarians, and professionals associated with affiliated industries, trade organizations, and universities.