Abstract

abstract: “Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) poses a significant threat to pig health, particularly within multi-site industrial pig farming systems. Transport via trucks and trailers can increase the risk of pathogen transmission through contaminated vehicles. This study examined data from four PRRSV outbreaks in U.S. sow farms during a regional emergence of a PRRSV2 variant, focusing on vehicle movements and cleaning protocols. Researchers analyzed vehicle movement records between premises and visits to truck wash stations, creating networks encompassing sites including breeding, growing, and isolation facilities. Network simulations were used to evaluate infection sources and virus transmission risks under various vehicle cleaning and disinfection (C&D) frequencies. Results indicated that higher frequency of vehicle C&D resulted in infection risks nearly equivalent to optimal scenarios. Regular truck washing substantially decreased the infection risk across all farm types, with notable reductions observed for sow farms and gilt isolation farms. This research underscores the critical role of thorough cleaning and disinfection protocols in reducing infection risk and emphasizes the significance of truck washing in controlling PRRSV. The study provides quantitative evidence that consistent vehicle C&D practices significantly reduce transmission risks, offering valuable insights for targeted interventions to enhance biosecurity.”