Swine Transmissible Gastroenteritis (TGE) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, particularly piglets. It is caused by a coronavirus, specifically the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDV). TGE primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract of pigs, leading to severe diarrhea and vomiting. The virus can spread rapidly within a pig herd, resulting in significant economic losses to the swine industry.
The symptoms of TGE usually appear within 24 to 48 hours after infection and include watery diarrhea, dehydration, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. The disease is most severe in piglets, especially those less than two weeks old, as their immune systems are not yet fully developed. Mortality rates in affected piglets can reach up to 100%, leading to considerable economic consequences for pig producers.
TGE is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated feces or contaminated materials such as feed, water, or equipment. It can also spread through direct contact with infected animals or by aerosol transmission. The virus is highly stable and can survive in the environment for prolonged periods, allowing for easy dissemination.
Prevention and control of TGE include strict hygiene measures, such as thorough cleaning and disinfection of pig facilities, proper biosecurity practices, and isolation of infected animals. Vaccination has also been used as a preventive measure, although the efficacy may vary. Prompt diagnosis and early intervention are crucial in minimizing the impact of the disease on pig herds and preventing its further spread.
