PCV2 is a ubiquitous pathogen associated with a number of diseases. It is detectable in almost every swine herd worldwide; however, a clinical disease is neither present in every infected herd nor in every infected pig. Nevertheless, reduced performance is also a problem in numerous subclinical infected herds. Important is also the negative impact on the swine’s immune system. Formerly known as PMWS (Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome), systemic disease is seen as growth retardation, pallor, hyperplasia (later hypoplasia) of the lymph nodes in the individual animal. It may be accompanied with jaundice or further clinical symptoms of the respiratory and enteric system. On a herd level increased mortality and culls, reduced weight gain and uneven growth may be recognized. In sows PCV2 may be associated with reproductive failures primarily in gilts and start-up herds. Due to the variety of symptoms associated with PCV2, disease is now commonly referred to as PCVD or PCVAD (Porcine Circovirus (Associated) Diseases). PCV2 is still believed to cause the Porcine Dermatitis and Nephropathy Syndrome.
No targeted therapy is available for PCVD. Vaccination is widely used to control disease resulting in an increased weight gain, reduced losses and clinical signs, as well as a reduced number of culls and runts. Furthermore the feed conversion ratio may improve and antibiotic use is reduced. The impact on performance is also measureable in mild or subclinical infected herds.
References:
3. Coll et al. 2012: Effect of PCV2 piglet vaccination on FCR in 24 Spanish farms. Proc ESPHM, Bruges, Belgium: 213.
4. Coll et al. 2012: Effect of PCV2 piglet vaccination on performance in Spain: field experience in 24 farms. Proc IPVS, Jeju, Korea: 903.
