'Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome' in Quebec
Bilodeau, R.; Dea, S.; Sauvageau, R.A.; Martineau, G.P.
Veterinary Record 129(5): 102-103
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 1926720 Document Number: 387134
A reproductive and respiratory syndrome which has affected pigs in Quebec during the last 4 years is described. The disease which is similar to blue ear disease of pigs which has been reported in Europe is characterized by anorexia and pyrexia in sows, late term abortions, increased stillbirths, weak piglets and neonatal deaths. The period of reproductive disorders is often accompanied or followed by respiratory problems in pigs of all ages. Secondary infections exacerbate the condition. An unusual catarrhal, proliferative and necrotic pneumonia is seen in affected pigs. Virological and serological investigations of specimens from 40 farms showed that encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) and a non-classical serotype A influenzavirus were the agents isolated most consistently from aborted fetuses and/or pneumonic pigs. 42 (40%) of 105 fetal fluids tested from 28 farms were found to be highly positive for anti-EMCV antibodies. No significant pattern of seroconversion to various porcine and bovine viruses was seen. Preliminary investigations showed that EMCV produced myocarditis in gnotobiotic pigs while the atypical influenzavirus produced the same type of pneumonia seen in field cases of the disease. Further investigations into the role of EMCV and atypical swine influenzavirus are continuing.