Memorandum 2018-03: Senecavirus A as a potential contaminant of swine origin raw materials and seed stock used in the production of veterinary biologics

59 Camelot Drive
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0Y9
Telephone: 613-773-7786
Facsimile: 613-773-7115

Date: May 1, 2018

To: Manufacturers and Importers of Veterinary Biologics

Senecavirus A (SVA) has become more prevalent in the swine populations of several countries, which has increased the risk of this virus contaminating swine origin raw materials used in the production of veterinary biologics. SVA may escape detection in the tests normally performed to confirm the absence of extraneous agents in raw materials, master seed and cell stocks, and final products.

The Canadian Centre for Veterinary Biologics (CCVB) is aware of the testing currently being done by the US Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB), as referenced in CVB Notice CVB Notice 18-05 – PDF (116 kb) and the CVB's publication entitled Testing for Senecavirus A in Biological Products – PDF 54 kb). The CCVB is currently undertaking its own risk analysis. In the meantime, manufacturers and importers of veterinary biologic products sold in Canada are reminded of their obligation to notify the CCVB of: i) any new information regarding a veterinary biologic's risk of harm to animal health or risk of introducing or spreading a disease agent in Canada [Health of Animals Regulations (HAR) 120.6(1)]; as well as ii) any information concerning, or evidence of, a significant deficiency in the safety of a veterinary biologic (HAR 135.1).

Manufacturers and importers of veterinary biologics sold in Canada should take appropriate measures to ensure that their products are free from SVA contamination.

Testing protocols for the detection of SVA in swine origin raw materials, seed stocks and final product (e.g., VIRPRO0129 and VIRPRO0130) are available on the USDA's website.

Please contact our office if you have any questions about this Memorandum.

Surinder Saini, DVM, MVSc, PhD
National Manager
Canadian Centre for Veterinary Biologics
Animal Import/Export Division
Animal Health Directorate