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Aujeszky’s Disease Returns: Farmers Urged to Stay Alert
Aujeszky’s disease, a serious viral infection in pigs, is reappearing in parts of Europe, raising concern among farmers and animal health officials.
Martina Osmak
Director of Marketing
What Is Aujeszky’s Disease?
Aujeszky’s disease, also called pseudorabies, is caused by a herpesvirus that mainly affects pigs. While it can infect other animals such as cattle, sheep, dogs, and cats, pigs are the main host and the only species that can survive the infection.
The disease does not pose a risk to humans, which is important for public reassurance.
Why Experts Are Concerned
Recent reports from farms in parts of Europe show new cases of the disease. Authorities warn that the virus can spread quietly and quickly.
It can enter farms through:
Infected pigs without visible symptoms
Contaminated equipment, clothing, or vehicles
Contact with wild or feral pigs
The virus can survive in the environment for several days, making control more difficult.
Symptoms Depend on Age
The impact of the disease varies depending on the age of the pig.
Young Piglets
High fever
Weakness and loss of appetite
Severe nervous signs such as shaking or seizures
Very high death rate, often close to 100%
Growing Pigs
Breathing problems
Sneezing and nasal discharge
Fever and slower growth
Adult Pigs
Mild or no visible symptoms
Can become long-term carriers of the virus
Pregnant Sows
Abortions
Stillbirths
Return to heat
Other Animals at Risk
Animals such as dogs and cattle can become infected, usually after contact with pigs or raw pork. In these species, the disease is almost always fatal.
A key sign is intense itching, sometimes called "mad itch," which leads animals to injure themselves.
No Cure, But Prevention Works
There is no specific treatment for Aujeszky’s disease. Control depends on prevention and quick action.
Key measures include:
Vaccination of pig herds
Strict farm hygiene and disinfection
Limiting contact with wild animals
Rapid reporting of suspected cases
Vaccines are effective and help reduce the spread of the virus.
What Happens During an Outbreak
If the disease is confirmed, strict rules are applied:
Movement of animals is stopped
Farms may be placed under quarantine
Infected herds may need to be culled
These steps are necessary to stop further spread and protect the wider livestock industry.
A Global Issue
Although some countries have eliminated the disease from commercial farms, it still exists in wild pig populations. This means the risk of reintroduction remains.
Experts stress that early detection and strong biosecurity are the best defenses. Farmers worldwide are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any unusual signs immediately.
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