PiV1

PiV1, also known as Porcine Parvovirus 1, is a virus that infects pigs. It is a member of the Parvoviridae family, which are small, non-enveloped viruses with single-stranded DNA genomes. PiV1 is a significant pathogen in the swine industry, primarily affecting reproductive performance.

The virus is transmitted through the fecal-oral route and can also spread vertically from infected sows to their offspring. Once inside the pig, PiV1 replicates in the intestinal cells and lymphoid tissues. A key characteristic of PiV1 infection is its ability to cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus.

In pregnant sows, infection can lead to a range of reproductive problems, including embryonic death, mummification of fetuses, stillbirths, and the birth of weak piglets. These outcomes are often referred to as SMEDI syndrome (Stillbirth, Mummification, Embryonic Death, and Infertility). Non-pregnant pigs typically show mild or no clinical signs.

Diagnosis of PiV1 infection is usually made through serological tests that detect antibodies against the virus or by detecting viral DNA using PCR in fetal tissues or fecal samples. Prevention and control strategies focus on biosecurity measures within farms to prevent introduction and spread of the virus, as well as vaccination programs for breeding sows. Vaccination aims to stimulate immunity in sows, providing passive immunity to their offspring through colostrum and protecting the pregnant sow from reproductive failure.