Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), also known as Blue-Ear Pig Disease, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, particularly those in swine herds and farms. It is caused by the PRRS virus, which belongs to the Arteriviridae family.
PRRS primarily affects the reproductive and respiratory systems of pigs. In the reproductive system, it can lead to reproductive failure, including abortions, stillbirths, mummified fetuses, and decreased fertility. In pregnant sows, PRRS virus infection can result in vaginal discharge, weak piglets, and increased piglet mortality.
Respiratory symptoms of PRRS include coughing, difficulty breathing, and nasal discharge. Secondary bacterial infections may occur, further exacerbating the respiratory disease. Pigs infected with PRRS appear weak, suffer from reduced growth rates, and have an increased susceptibility to other diseases.
PRRS virus is primarily transmitted through aerosolized droplets containing the virus, which can be spread from infected pigs to healthy ones through direct contact or indirect exposure to contaminated objects such as feed, clothing, equipment, or vehicles. The virus can also be transmitted through contaminated semen or via the placenta from an infected sow to her piglets.
Preventing the spread of PRRS involves strict biosecurity measures, including quarantining and testing new pigs before introducing them to existing herds, disinfecting equipment and facilities, controlling visitor access, and practicing proper hygiene and biocontainment protocols.
Efforts to control PRRS focus on vaccination strategies, although the virus can mutate and evolve, making vaccine effectiveness challenging. Antiviral drugs and supportive care may be used to mitigate symptoms and improve the overall health of infected animals.
