CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -In 1987, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) was recognized in the USA as a new disease of swine causing late-term reproductive failure and severe pneumonia in neonatal pigs.

Detailed explanation-2: -What is Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)? Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, (PRRS), also named blue ear disease, is a widespread disease affecting domestic pigs. The symptoms include reproductive failure, pneumonia and increased susceptibility to secondary bacterial infection.

Detailed explanation-3: -The primary vector for transmission of the virus is the infected pig and contaminated semen. Controlled studies have indicated that infected swine may be longterm carriers, with adults able to shed PRRS virus for up to 86 days after infection, and weaned pigs able to harbor virus for 157 days.

Detailed explanation-4: -Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) only affects pigs. Infected pigs may show signs of breathing and respiratory distress, anorexia, fever and depression. Some may have highly prominent blue ears. Infertility, abortion or birth of weak piglets can also be symptoms.

Detailed explanation-5: -The most common infectious causes of reproductive problems in swine are parvovirus, enterovirus, leptospirosis and pseudorabies. Other less common infectious causes of reproductive problems are brucellosis, hog cholera, swine influenza, encephalomyocarditis, streptococcus suis, erysipelas and parasites.