Other significant pig diseases that do not occur in Australia
Aujeszky’s disease or pseudorabies is a viral disease that occurs predominantly in pigs but can affect many other animals. In pigs Aujeszky’s disease spreads by direct contact and inhalation. It produces a range of signs such as sudden death, respiratory and nervous signs with the most severe signs in younger pigs where death rates can be up to 100%. In older pigs deaths are less frequent but pigs show a range of respiratory and nervous signs. In other livestock species Aujeszky’s disease causes intense itching (‘mad itch’) and is fatal.
Porcine endemic diarrhoea (PED) is a contagious viral disease that has spread to the United States of America where it is causing diarrhoea and deaths, especially in younger pigs.
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a serious viral disease that causes respiratory signs in younger pigs and abortions and stillbirths in sows. Initially called ‘blue ear disease’ or ‘mystery swine disease’, PRRS is now widespread with two strains recognised, the European and the North American.
Post weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) is a widespread viral disease caused by circovirus that produces a range of signs predominantly in younger pigs. Signs include weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes and respiratory difficulty.
Rabies can affect pigs, in addition to many other species and humans. Infection with rabies virus is usually from a bite which then results in nervous signs in the affected animal. Pigs affected with rabies are usually depressed rather than becoming aggressive, but may also try to eat unusual things.
Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) is a viral disease that causes acute vomiting, diarrhoea and death in young pigs, particularly those less than 10 days old. It is relatively common in pig-producing countries, but has not been diagnosed in Australia or New Zealand.
Trichinellosis is caused by a parasite that is not present in Australia. It can be spread by the feeding of illegally imported pig products to pigs and is also a human health risk.