Hemagglutinating Encephalomyelitis Coronavirus Infection in Pigs, Argentina
Author Information
Author(s): Quiroga Maria A., Cappuccio Javier, Piñeyro Pablo, Basso Walter, Moré Gastón, Kienast Mariana, Schonfeld Sergio, Cáncer José L., Arauz Sandra, Pintos María E., Nanni Mariana, Machuca Mariana, Hirano Norio, Perfumo Carlos J.
Primary Institution: Universidad Nacional de la Plata, La Plata, Argentina
Hypothesis
This study documents PHE-CoV infection in South America.
Conclusion
The outbreak of PHE-CoV in piglets in Argentina resulted in significant clinical signs and high mortality rates.
Supporting Evidence
- The outbreak affected 52.6% of farrowing barns on the farm.
- 16.9% of unweaned pigs died during the outbreak.
- Clinical signs included vomiting, listlessness, and neurologic symptoms.
- Nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis was found in 50% of infected animals.
- Detection of PHE-CoV was confirmed through RT-PCR and IHC testing.
Takeaway
A virus that makes baby pigs sick was found in Argentina, causing them to vomit and lose weight.
Methodology
Diagnosis was made using epidemiologic factors, pathologic features, immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription–PCR, and genomic sequencing.
Limitations
The study was conducted on a single farm, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study involved a 3-site herd with a total of 6,000 sows, primarily affecting piglets under 3 weeks of age.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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