Aujeszky's disease

Aujeszky's Disease

Aujeszky's disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a viral disease caused by the Suid herpesvirus 1 (SuHV-1), which is a member of the family Herpesviridae. This disease primarily affects swine, but it can also infect a wide range of other animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, dogs, cats, and wildlife. It is not known to infect humans.

History

Aujeszky's disease is named after the Hungarian veterinarian Aladár Aujeszky, who first described the disease in 1902. The disease has been recognized in swine for over a century and has significant economic implications for the swine industry due to its impact on animal health and productivity.

Etiology

The causative agent of Aujeszky's disease is the Suid herpesvirus 1 (SuHV-1), also known as pseudorabies virus (PRV). This virus is an alphaherpesvirus, which is characterized by its ability to establish latent infections in the host.

Transmission

The primary host for SuHV-1 is the domestic pig, which serves as the reservoir for the virus. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals, inhalation of aerosolized virus, or ingestion of contaminated feed or water. The virus can also be spread through fomites and by mechanical vectors such as rodents.

Clinical Signs

In pigs, clinical signs of Aujeszky's disease vary depending on the age of the animal. In young piglets, the disease is often fatal and characterized by central nervous system signs such as tremors, incoordination, and seizures. In older pigs, respiratory signs such as coughing and sneezing are more common, along with reproductive issues such as abortions in sows.

In non-swine species, the disease is usually fatal and presents with severe neurological signs, intense itching (pruritus), and self-mutilation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Aujeszky's disease is based on clinical signs, serological testing, and detection of the virus through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or virus isolation techniques. Serological tests such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are commonly used for surveillance and control programs.

Control and Prevention

Control of Aujeszky's disease involves biosecurity measures, vaccination, and eradication programs. Vaccination of pigs with modified live or inactivated vaccines can reduce clinical signs and virus shedding. Eradication programs have been successful in eliminating the disease from domestic swine populations in several countries.

Economic Impact

Aujeszky's disease has significant economic implications due to losses in productivity, increased veterinary costs, and trade restrictions. The disease can lead to high mortality rates in piglets and reduced growth rates in surviving animals.

Also see

• Swine influenza
• Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome
• Foot-and-mouth disease
• Classical swine fever