The study, which involved approximately 567,000 PRRS-negative pigs at 42 finisher sites (total of 121 barns), was conducted in an area where PRRSV is endemic, reports the National Institute for Animal Agriculture. Approximately 40 per cent of the barns used a Danish entrance (clothing change and hand washing).

In a report, Dr Steve Dritz of Kansas State University noted that the pigs in those barns were significantly less likely to become PRRS infected during the project than those that had no entrance biosecurity protocols. In addition, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly better and the opportunity cost per pig was almost $2.00 less.

The study found that the previous PRRSV status of the barn had no impact on the PRRSV status of subsequent groups of pigs. This suggests that cleaning and disinfecting can effectively kill the virus.

Season, on the other hand, did have an impact. The study found significantly more PRRSV outbreaks in January to March than at other times of the year. Researchers say this is understandable as previous research has demonstrated the stability of the virus in freezing conditions.

Further Reading

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Find out more information on porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome (PRRS) by clicking here.