Classical Swine Fever
What is it?
Classical Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease
affecting wild (feral) and domestic pigs (swine). It’s also known as hog
cholera and was successfully eradicated in the U.S. in the late 1970’s.
Veterinarians and producers should always be vigilant for the disease because
it can have a significant economic impact, and is still found in several
countries, including South and Central America. The USDA operates a Classical
Swine Fever Surveillance Program to reduce disease risk and stop any potential
introductions as quickly as possible.
How is it transmitted?
The virus can be spread via several avenues including direct
contact between infected pigs and healthy pigs. Additionally, infected pigs shed
the virus in fluids like nasal discharge, saliva, urine and feces. Shedding of
the virus may occur before showing clinical signs. The virus can survive on contaminated
equipment and in food/feed, especially uncooked or undercooked garbage or food
scraps. The virus has been shown to pass from an infected sow to its piglets.
What are the clinical signs?
Clinical signs of Classical Swine Fever include fever,
purple discoloration of the skin, loss of appetite, weakness, diarrhea, and
raised red spots on the skin or ears. The severity of the clinical signs can
vary based on the strain of the virus infecting the animal. There is no
treatment for infected animals.
How is it diagnosed?
Veterinary diagnostic laboratory tests are needed to confirm
the disease. An accredited herd veterinarian can draw blood samples from
suspect pigs and submit them to an approved lab, like the University of
Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
Is there a risk to people?
Classical Swine Fever is not known to affect people, and
swine have been the only species known to be susceptible.
How can it be prevented?
Strong biosecurity practices are a producer’s first line of
defense in keeping diseases out of their livestock. Clean and dirty lines
should be observed and proper barn entry protocols followed. Isolate pigs
coming into the herd for a period of time, whether introducing new animals, or
returning animals to the herd from an exhibition. Lastly, speak to your herd
veterinarian about your surveillance program and make sure you have a plan in
place when animals show clinical signs of any kind.
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