THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN MOVED TO Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)
DO NOT UNPUBLISH OR REPUBLISH THIS PAGE YET --Jerri 20:51, 28 October 2009 (UTC)
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is a contagious viral disease of pigs that can cause reproductive loss, respiratory stress, and death. PRRS was first described in the United States in the mid 1980s as mystery pig disease. Since then, PRRS has cost the U.S. Pork Industry over $500 million each year.
PRRS virus is shed in urine, feces, saliva, and semen of pigs. The virus can spread through the herd by contact with contaminated equipment or clothing, contact with infected pigs, airborn transmission, and possibly association with mallard ducks. PRRS is the subject of an eradication program in the United States.
Endemic Areas
The PRRS virus is found worldwide.
Clinical Signs
- Abortion
- Stillbirth
- Premature birth
- Lethargy
- Anorexia (poor appetite)
- Poor sperm quality
- Decreased libido
- Coughing
- Splayed legs (piglets)
- Death (piglets)
- Starvation due to inability to nurse (piglets)
- Secondary bacterial infection (piglets)
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for PRRS. Piglets may be given antibiotics and supportive care to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Any pig suspected of having PRRS should be reported to the State Veterinarians or USDA Area Veterinarian in Charge immediately.
Prevention
PRRS vaccines are available in the United States.
Maintaining strict biosecurity practices is the best way to prevent the entry and spread of the PRRS virus. These practices should include quarantining any pig of unknown health status, establishing all-in/all-out pig movement policies, cleaning and disinfecting equipment properly, and limiting visitor contact with the herd.
Links
PRRS -USDA and the National Pork Board
PRRS -Texas A&M University
