Diagnosis of Rotavirus in Swine

Rotavirus is a serious problem in pig populations, according to ThePigSite.com. The virus is resistant to disinfectants and environmental changes. Its symptoms are different depending on a pig's age, according to the site.

  1. Sows

    • Sows have bouts of transient diarrhea when infected by a rotavirus.

    Piglets

    • Piglets infected by a rotavirus exhibit the following symptoms: diarrhea lasting three to four days, sunken eyes, and wet skin in area of the rectum. Atrophy in the intestinal tract is another common symptom.

    Growers and Weaners

    • Dehydration is a common symptom of rotavirus infection in weaners and growers. Sunken eyes and diarrhea are also symptoms.

    Causes

    • Temperature fluctuations may aid the growth of rotavirus. Bad house hygiene, infected boots or clothing, or pig houses that are never emptied may also be causes.

    Diagnosis

    • Rotavirus in considered a possibility in any pig between 10 and 40 days old that gets diarrhea. Blood tests and electron microscopy can confirm the existence of rotavirus.