The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) is reporting increased Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED) activity and shifting Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) trends across age groups, according to its latest domestic and global disease surveillance updates.
As outlined in SHIC’s March eNewsletter, PED case positivity continues to rise across multiple production stages, while PRRS trends remain variable depending on age category.
According to Lisa Becton, Associate Director with SHIC, PRRS activity in wean-to-market pigs has declined for the third consecutive month following peak levels observed since October 2025. However, sow farm diagnoses and case positivity have increased for the fifth straight month—highlighting ongoing health pressure in breeding herds.
“While we typically expect PRRS detection to decline with the transition into warmer spring and summer months, the reduction in grow-finish pigs may also reflect improved sow herd status or reduced regional pressure,” Becton explained. “At the same time, increased activity in sow farms may be tied to regional case surges and the introduction of new PRRS virus strains, particularly in areas like North Carolina where herds may have limited immunity.”
In contrast, PED activity is trending above expected levels across all major production stages—including sows, adults, and wean-to-market pigs—raising concerns about ongoing transmission risk.
Becton emphasized that, regardless of seasonal expectations, producers must remain vigilant in their biosecurity efforts.
“Reducing viral load and transmission requires continuous evaluation of on-farm biosecurity, transportation protocols, and sanitation practices,” she noted. “It’s also critical to assess deadstock management systems, as deceased animals can carry high viral loads and contribute to disease spread if not handled properly.”
The latest surveillance reports reinforce the importance of a comprehensive, system-wide approach to disease prevention—particularly as evolving virus dynamics and regional pressures continue to challenge herd health stability.
