Pseudorabies

Pseudorabies is a contagious herpes virus, also known as Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV), that primarily affects swine. Despite its name, it is not the same as rabies more commonly found in wildlife. The pig is the primary host for pseudorabies, though the virus can infect many other mammals, including cattle, sheep, goats, dogs, cats, and wildlife such as opossums, raccoons, skunks, and rodents. The disease can be fatal in non-swine species.

Clinical Signs of Pseudorabies in Swine 

In piglets and young pigs:
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Hind leg paralysis, including “dog-sitting”
  • Recumbency, paddling, or walking in circles
  • Incoordination
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Death
In adult pigs:
  • Coughing
  • Fever
  • Pneumonia
  • Muscle tremors and convulsions, though less common
  • Reproductive problems

Heightened Biosecurity for Swine Producers

  • Work with your herd veterinarian and report suspicious signs promptly.
  • Develop, maintain, and follow a herd biosecurity plan.
  • Clean and control movement of boots, clothing and equipment.
  • Use separation measures for pigs with outdoor access to prevent contact between domestic pigs and feral swine.
  • Source new pigs from validated-qualified swine herds that are routinely tested.

How Pseudorabies Spreads

Direct pig-to-pig contact:
  • Nose-to-nose (snout-to-snout) contact with infected pigs 
  • Contact with nasal and oral secretions (saliva, mucus) 
  • Contact with reproductive fluids (including during breeding) 
Indirect transmission:
  • Contaminated equipment, boots, clothing, trailers, or facilities 
  • Feed or water contaminated with secretions from infected animals 
Airborne spread:
  • The virus can spread short distances through the air, especially in cool, moist conditions 

Suspected Cases of Pseudorabies in Swine 

If pork producers suspect clinical signs of pseudorabies, they should contact their herd veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5305. 

Food Safety 

It remains safe to enjoy pork. Pseudorabies does not present a food safety concern. As always, pork should be cooked to appropriate temperatures before consuming. 

Public Health 

Pseudorabies is not considered a risk to the general public. During previous outbreaks, there have been confirmed cases in some workers who have direct contact with infected animals. 

Resources

USDA APHIS Swine Disease - Pseudorabies

USDA APHIS Pseudorabies Eradication Program Standards

Iowa State University Center for Food Safety & Public Health - Pseudorabies