Following USDA APHIS confirmation of PRV in Iowa and Texas, the risk remains low and is linked to feral swine exposure. Still, this is a good reminder of why the National Swine Health Strategy matters on every operation.
The U.S. commercial swine herd has been officially recognized as free of pseudorabies virus (PRV) since 2004, a major success for producers and the pork industry.PRV does continue to circulate in feral swine populations. While risk to domestic pigs is not zero, it is limited, well understood and tied to specific exposure pathways.
Understanding Where Risk Exists
Current PRV risk is not driven by commercial production systems or proximity to other farms. Instead, it is associated with exposure to feral swine and, in some cases, outdoor production systems where that contact is possible.
For the majority of indoor commercial operations with established herd health programs, PRV risk remains very low. Maintaining that status depends on staying focused on these known risk factors rather than broad changes to standard biosecurity practices.
Focus on What Matters Most
Producers can manage PRV risk effectively by prioritizing the practices that directly address how the virus could be introduced and being prepared if it is detected:
- Work with your veterinarian on every interstate movement to ensure pigs (and all livestock) meet Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and testing requirements
- Prevent contact between domestic pigs and feral swine, especially in outdoor or pasture-based systems
- Ensure all staff members are always following strong biosecurity protocols
- Report, test and confirm quickly if exposure is suspected
Feral swine remain the primary reservoir for PRV in the U.S. Preventing interaction between feral and domestic pigs is the most important step producers can take to reduce risk.
Click here to see more...