An Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine graduate student has earned international recognition for research that could help producers strengthen PRRSV control programs and improve pig health across all phases of production.
Dr. Ching-Yang Wang, a member of ISU’s Field Epidemiology Team, received a top student award at a major global swine health congress for his work evaluating how maternally derived immunity influences PRRSV vaccination success. His research focuses on understanding the range of maternal antibodies present in young pigs and how those antibodies affect both protection and interference with vaccination.
According to Wang, the goal is to better characterize real-world maternal immunity profiles in both stable breeding herds and those struggling with ongoing PRRS challenges. By identifying how immunity varies within and between herds, his work aims to help veterinarians and producers fine-tune vaccine timing, reduce disease pressure, and support more consistent pig flow.
Wang’s background includes hands-on experience in swine production, diagnostics, and health management, giving him a practical perspective on how research solutions must function at the barn level. His current work also explores how maternal immunity interacts with downstream nursery performance and overall PRRSV risk reduction.
This recognition highlights the continued leadership of U.S. veterinary researchers in tackling PRRSV — a disease that remains one of the most economically significant issues in global pork production. Wang’s work adds valuable insight toward improving vaccination strategies and understanding immunity dynamics in the field.
