Is PRRS an RNA virus?

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a positive-strand RNA virus that belongs to the Arteriviridae family. PRRSV grows in primary alveolar macrophages and in monkey kidney cell lines.

What type of virus is PRRS?

The PRRS virus is an enveloped RNA virus in the genus Arterivirus, classified in the virus family, Arteriviridae. There is considerable heterogeneity in the genome of the PRRS virus because of inherent errors common in transcription of RNA.

Is PRRS airborne?

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSv) is one of the most significant airborne viruses impacting the pork industry in the US.

Is PRRS reportable?

PRRS is not a reportable disease in some countries. Dewey suggests either they are not testing for the disease, or indeed their herds are negative. PRRS was added to the International Office of Epizootics (OIE) list of reportable diseases in 1992.

Is PRRS contagious to humans?

No! With the exception of mallard ducks, PRRS virus only infects swine. It poses no threat to humans or other animals and in no way makes eating pork a threat to human health. What can I do to protect my herd from becoming infected with PRRS virus?

How can you prevent PRRS?

Prevent the introduction of PRRS virus entering the herd by maintaining good biosecurity and screen all stock entering the herd. Investigate any abortions and establish a good recording system for abortions on the farm.

What are symptoms of PRRS?

Symptoms of acute PRRS virus infection in pigs infected in utero or shortly after birth include severe dyspnea (labored breathing or thumping), lethargy, inappetence, fever, edema or swelling of the eyelids, and a blue or red discoloration of the ears or hindquarters. Pre-weaning mortality may approach 100%.

How is PRRS transmitted?

Transmission most commonly occurs by close contact between pigs or by exposure to contaminated body fluids (semen, virus-contaminated blood, secretions, contaminated needles, coveralls, and boots). An important feature of the PRRS virus is the ability of infected pigs to transmit the virus for up to 100 days.

How do you diagnose PRRS?

The detection of PRRSv-specific antibodies in serum is the most common method for diagnosing PRRS, although oral fluid samples or muscle transudates can also be used. In the US, oral fluid analysis has increased more than tenfold since 2010 (Figure 2).

Is ASF harmful to humans?

African swine fever does not affect humans. It is not a public-health threat or a food-safety concern. Why is African swine fever hard to eradicate? ASF can be spread through ticks, live or dead pigs and pork products, contaminated feed and by humans.