The U.S. commercial swine herd has been officially recognized as free of pseudorabies virus (PRV) since 2004, a major success for producers and the pork industry.PRV does continue to circulate in feral swine populations. While risk to domestic pigs is not zero, it is limited, well understood and tied to specific exposure pathways.
Understanding Where Risk Exists
Current PRV risk is not driven by commercial production systems or proximity to other farms. Instead, it is associated with exposure to feral swine and, in some cases, outdoor production systems where that contact is possible.
For the majority of indoor commercial operations with established herd health programs, PRV risk remains very low. Maintaining that status depends on staying focused on these known risk factors rather than broad changes to standard biosecurity practices.
Focus on What Matters Most
Producers can manage PRV risk effectively by prioritizing the practices that directly address how the virus could be introduced and being prepared if it is detected:
- Work with your veterinarian on every interstate movement to ensure pigs (and all livestock) meet Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and testing requirements
- Prevent contact between domestic pigs and feral swine, especially in outdoor or pasture-based systems
- Ensure all staff members are always following strong biosecurity protocols
- Report, test and confirm quickly if exposure is suspected
Feral swine remain the primary reservoir for PRV in the U.S. Preventing interaction between feral and domestic pigs is the most important step producers can take to reduce risk.
The Role of a Secure Pork Supply Plan and Traceability
Preparedness remains important, even with low risk. A Secure Pork Supply Plan helps maintain business continuity in the event of a disease outbreak. The recently updated plan offers simplified biosecurity templates and checklists tailored for indoor and outdoor operations (including feral swine mitigation), show pigs and small farms.
Accurate traceability also plays a key role in response. Tools that work together with SPS planning, like AgView®, allow producers to maintain up-to-date movement records and quickly share that information with their State Animal Health Official when needed. Having access to timely, accurate data can help demonstrate where pigs have been, support disease investigations and reduce unnecessary disruptions to operations.
One Last Takeaway for Pork Producers
Pseudorabies remains a manageable risk if producers focus on what matters. Taking practical steps today helps safeguard your herd, your business and the broader U.S. pork supply.
For more information, check out these resources:
• PRV Key Information for Swine Producers
• PRV Fact Sheet
• USDA APHIS PRV landing page
