Crowding pigs into factory farms likely led to the emergence of the H1N1 swine flu pandemic. So far, millions of people have been infected and thousands have died. Learn the inside story on the origins of swine flu and ways we can help prevent flu pandemics in the future.
The price of factory farmed meat doesn't reflect its true cost. This pandemic may be part of the price we're all paying for products from filthy industrial pig factories.
Pigs are often forced to live in huge warehouses, crammed together, awash in their own waste, and constantly stressed by their cruel treatment. These conditions provide a breeding ground for diseases that can then spread to people.
Flu shots and frequent handwashing can help protect you this flu season, but the best way to reduce the risk of future outbreaks may be to follow the advice of the American Public Health Association and declare "no more factory farms."
Flu Factories
See the DVD explaining the role factory farming played in the emergence of the swine flu epidemic, which infected more than a million Americans. Buy it here.
Learn MoreNews & Events
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September 6, 2011
Global Pandemic the Subject of New Thriller "Contagion"
In the film “Contagion,” opening in theaters September 9, a global pandemic is born when humans come into contact with an infected, slaughtered pig. Michael Greger, M.D., HSUS director of public health and animal agriculture, says there’s as much potential fact as fiction in the scenario, but his focus is on how, and where, such a virus is likely to be born.
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December 11, 2009
Video: Sick or Injured Pigs Are Routinely Slaughtered
Sick or injured pigs are routinely sent to slaughter, as shown in an HSUS undercover video.
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November 30, 2009
Can Pets Catch Swine Flu?
Recent media reports of the 2009 H1N1 influenza (swine flu) virus cases in companion animals have many guardians concerned for the health of their pets.
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September 22, 2009
Tips for Avoiding Swine Flu
Everything you need to know about avoiding swine flu you learned in kindegarten.
Our Victories
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May 16, 2013
Congressional Votes on Farm Bill Bring Good News, Bad News for Animals
The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, in taking up the Farm Bill yesterday, approved an amendment to crackdown on spectators at animal fighting ventures, but also approved a destructive, constitutionally questionable amendment to strip states of their right to protect farm animals and other animals from exploitation and abuse.
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May 13, 2013
New Jersey Legislature Overwhelmingly Passes Bill to Protect Pigs
The New Jersey legislature has voted by landslide margins to ban the extreme confinement of breeding pigs in crates so small, they prevent the animals from even turning around for nearly their entire lives. The vote earned applause from The Humane Society of the United States, Farm Sanctuary, Mercy For Animals and the ASPCA.
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May 13, 2013
Tenn. Governor Haslam Vetoes Anti-Whistleblower Bill
Gov. Bill Haslam vetoed the anti-whistleblower “ag-gag” bill, SB 1248/HB 1191, after hearing from thousands of Tennesseans urging the veto and a report deeming the bill constitutionally suspect by the Tennessee Attorney General.
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May 3, 2013
Timeline of Major Farm Animal Protection Advancements
Get a snapshot of The HSUS's advancements for farm animals over the last decade.
