wallydownundy

In Israel a formal apology was offered to the Ambassador of Mexico. Deputy Health Minister Yakov Litzman suggested the swine flu be renamed Mexico flu as pigs are not kosher. Says National Public Radio in the USA:

Mexico’s ambassador to Israel formally protested Litzman’s statement. Israel’s Foreign Ministry later apologized, saying Litzman was “just kidding.”

Meanwhile in Egypt some 30,000 to 40,000 pigs will be culled - even though there appears no link between the animal and today’s outbreaks.

Swine Flu was so named as the humble pig was likely the breeding ground of today’s influenza (most accurately known as H1N1). The strain combines elements of swine flu, avian flu and human influenza. Within the pig the cocktail came to life and began spreading from human-to-human.

For reassurance, there is no danger with pork. In fact the misnomer of Swine Flu is causing significant damage to the farming industry. The Australian Pork Council is working to keep the public reassured, according to ABC Rural - “Eating pork is safe, says industry”:

“We need to watch what’s happening, but there’s no risk whatsoever from pigs or pig products in Australia.”

These reassurances are not helping as numerous countries place bans on the import of pork and pig products from nations with reported cases of swine flu. This is leading to a sharp drop in the price of grain - a feedstock for pigs.

For now the name - Swine Flu - is having the unintended consequence of scaring consumers and importers off pork.

The challenge now for producers, industry associations, government and the media to continue providing accurate information in a calm manner. Public hysteria is easily raised through sensational reporting. Each form of communication - from traditional media to social media - can help assuage fears and correct misperceptions. Yet to breakthrough the cluttered airwaves pork producers need some visual-friendly imagery and smart spokespeople to achieve results.

Why not try:

• Eye-grabbing graphics?

• A voice on Twitter and Facebook?

• An up-to-date web site with consumer information?

• Leaflets in stores on smart and safe pork handling?

• Savvy chefs armed with materials ready to speak to television morning shows?

It’s now an obligation to keep consumers informed on the facts and to separate the fiction. Or us little piggies will never go to market…