Latest SHIC Report Shows Highest April PRRS Positivity Since 2018
The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) has introduced a valuable new tool designed to improve understanding of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) trends, evolution, and geographic distribution.
In its May Domestic Swine Disease Monitoring Report, SHIC flagged a notable spike in PRRS case positivity in wean-to-finish sites, with April 2025 marking the highest PRRS case rate for the month since 2018. The report, distributed via SHIC’s monthly eNewsletter, includes a new “bonus page” that explains the updated PRRS virus nomenclature and its application within SHIC’s disease reporting dashboards and BLAST analysis tool.
According to Dr. Lisa Becton, SHIC’s Associate Director, this addition will help veterinarians and producers better understand how PRRS strains change over time and how these shifts affect herd health and management strategies.
“The bonus page provides highlights and insight into PRRS evolution and the distribution of specific strains over time, space, and age groups,” said Dr. Becton. “This enhances our ability to track outbreaks, identify emerging variants, and understand the genetic relationships among PRRS virus strains.”
Key features of the tool include:
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Lineage distribution trends by month
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Breakdowns of strain activity across age groups and regions
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Visualizations of genetic changes over time
The ultimate goal is to equip swine veterinarians and producers with better data to support targeted disease management and reduction of PRRS impact.
To access the May monitoring report, the PRRS bonus page, and other swine disease tracking tools, visit www.swinehealth.org.
