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
A new DVD explains the role factory farming played in the emergence of the current flu epidemic, which has likely 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 15, 2012
Timeline of Major Farm Animal Protection Advancements
Get a snapshot of The HSUS's advancements for farm animals over the last decade.
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May 7, 2012
Safeway Announces Progress Toward Gestation Stall-Free Pork Supply Chain
Safeway, Inc., announced today that it will begin formulating plans to have a gestation stall-free supply chain for the pork products they sell.
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May 1, 2012
The HSUS Recognized with Webby Award for Outstanding Smithfield Exposé
The Humane Society of the United States is proud to receive a 2012 Webby People's Voice Award for the video “Undercover at Smithfield.” The video chronicles an HSUS investigation of the largest pork producer, which documented inhumane treatment of pigs and led to a positive commitment by the company to improve its animal welfare practices.
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March 12, 2012
Harmful “Ag Gag” Bill Fails in Indiana -- The Humane Society of the United States Praises Legislature
The Humane Society of the United States praised the Indiana legislature for holding fast and refusing to pass S.B.184, a bill aimed at criminalizing whistleblowers who expose animal abuse, unsafe working conditions, environmental destruction and other illegal and unethical activities on farms.