Swine Vesicular Exanthemas (SVE) refer to a group of highly contagious viral diseases that primarily affect pigs, causing significant economic losses within the swine industry worldwide. SVE is characterized by the presence of vesicles, or fluid-filled blisters, on the skin or mucous membranes of infected pigs.
One of the most prominent SVE viruses is the Swine Vesicular Disease Virus (SVDV), which belongs to the Picornaviridae family. The virus is enveloped in a single-stranded RNA genome, making it susceptible to environmental degradation and disinfectants. SVDV primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated objects, or via the respiratory or digestive routes.
Clinical signs of SVE may vary but often include fever, lameness, lethargy, loss of appetite, and the formation of vesicles around the mouth, snout, and hooves. These vesicles can burst, leading to the formation of erosions and ulcers, causing pain and difficulty in movement for the affected animals. Such signs are similar to other swine diseases, emphasizing the importance of laboratory diagnosis to differentiate SVE from other conditions like Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
Prevention and control measures for SVE involve strict biosecurity protocols, including quarantine of affected animals and their contact, thorough cleaning and decontamination of premises, and vaccination programs where available. Prompt detection, reporting, and surveillance are essential to mitigate the spread of SVE and prevent its introduction into new regions.
