PRRS diagnosis at record levels in early 2018
Government vets say the unprecedented diagnosis rate could be down to better survival and transmission of the virus.
New government figures show record-breaking figures for the diagnosis of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in UK pigs.
In the first quarter of 2018, the diagnosis rate was 16.6 per cent - the highest quarterly rate that has been recorded so far, according to APHA’s latest GB Emerging Threats report. Previously, the highest rate was 12.7 per cent, in the fourth quarter of 2016.
The majority of diagnoses were for pigs in England.
A seasonal rise in PRRS cases is generally seen in the winter months, followed by a dip in summer.
However, government vets say the unprecedented diagnosis rate could be down to better survival and transmission of the virus, as well as cooler, darker, wetter conditions. In addition, colder, wetter weather could be making it more difficult to clean and disinfect housing.
Temperature fluctuations and ventilation issues in winter could also contribute to PRRS, as it does for other respiratory diseases.
Overall, the APHA’s report shows total diagnostic submissions were down seven per cent compared to the average of the previous four years.
To view the full report, visit: Click here
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
