In this study, the researchers wanted to better understand the potential role of noncommercial pigs in the spread of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus (PRRSv). This project involved a seroepidemiologic study that involved collecting blood for antibody testing by PRRS Elisa from 661 pigs at slaughter as well as 32 pigs from which blood samples were collected over time. Serum samples were obtained from pigs at slaughter or at county fairs and on farms. Spatial databases of commercial farms and 4-H participation were evaluated with the use of commercial geographic information systems software. In addition, the 4-H participants provided information about their disease and management knowledge through a mail survey and personal interview.
The researchers found that participation in 4-H swine programs was geographically associated with commercial swine production in Minnesota and that 39% of 4-H participants reared pigs at locations that had commercial pig production. There was a high seroprevalence of PRRSv antibodies at fairs with an average of 49% and a range of 29 to 76%. Interestingly, seroconversion to PRRSv occurred after attendance at fairs and this indicated that PRRSv exposure was common in pigs shown by 4-H participants and that transmission could occur at fairs.
The population of pigs being shown at fairs by 4-H members, which was estimated at 12,000,is a relatively small population when compared to an estimated population of 6.5 million commercial pigs in the State of Minnesota. The relative weakness of knowledge of biosecurity practices, evidence that PRRS virus exposure was frequent, common intentions by 4-H participants to show pigs at multiple events, and often close interactions with commercial herds suggested that the 4-H community should be involved in regional efforts to control PRRS.
[Thanks to Dr. George Charbonneau for his summary of this publication.]
Spencer R. Wayne, DVM; Robert B. Morrison, DVM, PhD; Carissa A. Odland, DVM; Peter R. Davies, BVSc, PhD; Potential role of noncommercial swine populations in the epidemiology and control of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus; Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association; April 1, 2012, Vol. 240, No. 7, Pages 876-882 doi: 10.2460/javma.240.7.876
Department of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108. (Wayne, Morrison, Odland, Davies) Drs. Wayne and Odland’s present address is Pipestone Veterinary Clinic, 1801 Forman Dr, Pipestone, MN 56164.