The recent detection of pseudorabies (PRV) in swine transported from Texas to Iowa has raised important questions regarding herd health and market stability. While the incident highlights the ongoing risk posed by feral swine populations, it also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the U.S. animal health surveillance system. From rapid diagnostic reporting to swift regulatory action, the industry’s coordinated response ensured the virus was identified and mitigated quickly. To help producers navigate this situation, industry experts address five common questions about the risk, the response, and the safety of the U.S. pork supply.
Q. Do I need to be worried about the pseudorabies incident in Iowa and Texas?
A. “We know the pseudorabies virus is present in the feral swine population. On occasion, we see cases in domestic swine where pigs, specifically those raised outdoors, have a known risk of exposure to feral pigs. This case involved the transport of swine from Texas to Iowa, and it’s important to keep in mind that the diagnostic and regulatory system performed as we have planned and as it is intended to do. The surveillance program was in place, the diagnostic laboratory reported timely results, the state veterinarian was notified and took swift action in conjunction with the state’s department of agriculture and USDA, and traceability allowed for communication with the state of Texas, initiating a fast response there. While it is never ideal to have a case occur, the focus here should be that there is a known risk and industry measures in place to swiftly coordinate and address that risk.” – Dr. Anna Forseth, National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) Director of Animal Health
Q. How can I protect my herd?
A. “To keep farms PRV-negative, producers should only bring replacement animals and semen from PRV negative sources, ensure that pigs do not come in contact with feral pigs, and should enforce biosecurity protocols of visitors and employees by using farm dedicated clothing and footwear exclusively, and avoid sharing equipment or materials with other farms.” – University of Minnesota Swine Group
Q. Has the U.S. had any export market response?
A. “NPPC is working closely with USDA and the U.S. Trade Representative’s offices on outreach to trading partners informing them of the detection of PRV and the steps immediately taken to mitigate the virus’ impact on U.S. pork exports. Strong animal health standards are a cornerstone of U.S. leadership in global protein supply, and the U.S. pork industry’s track record of eradicating and containing PRV should provide confidence to our trading partners in the safety and reliability of U.S. pork.” – Maria C. Zieba, NPPC Vice President of Government Affairs
Q. How do producers differentiate PRV from other respiratory/neurological issues?
A. “PRV can easily look like many common swine diseases such as influenza, PRRS or S. suis. Clinical presentation for PRV tends to be age-specific with neonatal/suckling pigs more likely to exhibit neurologic symptoms (including trembling, incoordination, convulsions, paralysis) and high mortality, while older growing animals tend to exhibit respiratory symptoms (including cough, dyspnea, rhinitis). Gestating gilts and sows can exhibit reproductive abnormalities including increased stillborn and mummified pigs, mummies as well as an increased rate of abortion. The virus cannot be detected based on observational, clinical signs alone. Working with your herd veterinarian to collect detailed herd health information and history in addition to a comprehensive diagnostic analysis is critical if a case of PRV is suspected. Veterinary investigation should be considered when animals of various ages are exhibiting symptoms that are outside of “normal” for the herd or that the herd has increased risk factors for PRV such as known exposure to feral swine or a PRV positive herd. Samples for diagnostic analysis include various tissues, serum, and oral fluids from affected animals.” – Dr. Lisa Becton, associate director of the Swine Health Information Center
Q. Is our food supply safe?
A. “It’s important for people to know that pseudorabies is not a food safety concern, and this virus does not pose a risk to consumers. The United States’ pork supply remains safe and secure.” – Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
While the threat from feral swine remains a constant reality, the combination of robust diagnostic systems and proactive farm-level biosecurity provides a strong defense for the U.S. pork supply. Vigilance and strong biosecurity protocols ensures herds stay protected and the export market remains secure.
