In pig farming, one of the dangerous yet often overlooked infectious diseases is pseudorabies in pigs. The disease can cause sows to abort, piglets to develop neurological signs or die in large numbers, and fattening pigs to show severe respiratory and nervous symptoms. To help farmers be more proactive in prevention and in handling outbreaks in their herds, please refer to the information shared by Vemedim below.
What is pseudorabies in pigs?
Pseudorabies in pigs is caused by Pseudorabies virus (PRV), a member of the genus Varicellovirus, family Herpesviridae. This virus is notable for its relatively high environmental stability; it can survive for several weeks under different weather conditions and withstand pH 2-12 for several hours before being inactivated. However, the virus is quickly destroyed by common disinfectants or high temperatures.
The virus mainly enters pigs through the respiratory tract, digestive tract, placenta, or mating. After entering the body, PRV rapidly multiplies in the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, then attacks the central nervous system via the olfactory and trigeminal nerves, leading to non-suppurative meningitis and severe neurological disorders.
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Symptoms of pseudorabies in pigs
The symptoms of pseudorabies depend on the pig’s age and immune status. The incubation period is usually 1-11 days, averaging 2-6 days. Piglets are the most susceptible, and the mortality rate can reach 100%. Specifically:
Suckling piglets
In suckling piglets, the disease develops rapidly. Piglets become lethargic, stop eating within the first 24 hours, and gradually develop neurological signs such as convulsions, loss of balance, eye twitching, or continuous seizures. They may also develop a high fever up to 41°C, excessive salivation, and difficulty breathing. Some lie on their side or curl up, with paddling movements of the legs. If neurological signs appear, piglets usually die within 24-36 hours.
Weaned pigs (3-6 weeks old)
Symptoms are usually milder than in suckling piglets. Pigs develop a fever of 41-42°C, loss of appetite, lethargy, and respiratory signs such as sneezing, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, and coughing. In some cases, secondary bacterial infections causing pneumonia may occur. The mortality rate is about 50% if neurological signs are present.
Fattening pigs (5-9 weeks old)
At this age, the disease mainly manifests as respiratory symptoms, including rhinitis, pneumonia, sneezing, and tearing. Pigs develop a fever of 41-42°C, become lethargic, and show a marked reduction in weight gain. Recovery takes 6-10 days, and the mortality rate is low (1-2%).
Sows and boars
Adult sows and boars usually show mild respiratory signs, possibly accompanied by fever and coughing. Pregnant sows are at risk of abortion, premature farrowing, or giving birth to weak, stunted piglets, but the mortality rate is low (<2%).
Diagnosis and treatment of pseudorabies
Diagnosis is mainly based on clinical signs, lesions, and herd progression. It must be differentiated from diseases with similar symptoms such as swine flu, classical swine fever, Parvovirus, PRRS, transmissible gastroenteritis, poisoning, or infectious abortion. The most accurate way to confirm the disease is through virus or serological testing at a veterinary diagnostic center, helping the herd be managed promptly and accurately.
Because the cause is viral, there is no specific treatment, so therapy focuses on supportive care, boosting resistance, and preventing secondary infections. Specifically:
- Care and support: Keep the environment clean and well-ventilated, reduce stress for sick pigs; supplement vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes to improve resistance.
- Reduce fever and symptoms: Use antipyretics and pain relievers as directed by a veterinarian, and closely monitor temperature and neurological signs.
- Prevent and treat secondary infections: Use broad-spectrum antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections for 7 days, following veterinary instructions.
- Boost immunity: Use probiotics, beta-glucan, or other immune-enhancing products to help pigs recover faster after illness.
How to prevent pseudorabies in pigs
Prevention is the most effective measure because the disease is caused by a virus and there is no specific treatment. Farmers can apply the following methods to prevent the disease in their pigs:
- Hygiene and biosecurity: Reduce stocking density; properly handle dead pigs, manure, waste, and leftover feed. Disinfect barns, equipment, and transport vehicles with Vemedim Altacid. Restrict dogs, cats, and unnecessary human traffic into the barn. Do not use semen from sick pigs.
- Vaccination with Vemedim Vime Coof: Follow the regular schedule to create active immunity for piglets and sows.
- Herd management: Isolate sick or suspected pigs to prevent spread. Remove positive sows and boars, and cull piglets showing neurological signs.
Pseudorabies in pigs not only affects the health of each individual animal but also threatens the entire herd and the farm’s economic efficiency. Early recognition of symptoms, timely vaccination, and strict biosecurity are the keys to protecting the herd. Vemedim is always ready to accompany you in caring for and protecting a healthy pig herd, so do not hesitate to contact us if you need further support!
