
Aujeszky’s Disease, also known as Pseudorabies, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects swine, caused by the Pseudorabies Virus (PRV), a herpesvirus belonging to the genus Varicellovirus, family Herpesviridae. The disease is of great sanitary and economic importance to the swine industry and is a mandatory notification disease in several countries.
In swine, which are the natural hosts of the virus, the infection can manifest in different ways depending on the age of the animals and the immune status of the herd. Young piglets exhibit severe neurological signs, tremors, seizures, and high mortality. In adult animals, the disease is primarily associated with respiratory and reproductive disorders, abortions, stillbirths, and decreased productivity. Other animal species may be accidentally infected, generally with a fatal outcome.
Transmission of Pseudorabies Virus occurs through direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva, aerosols, semen, and contaminated tissues, in addition to vertical transmission. The virus has a high capacity for dissemination in intensive production environments, being favored by the movement of animals, people, equipment, and contaminated vehicles.
Prevention and control of Aujeszky’s Disease are based on the adoption of strict biosecurity measures, animal movement control, quarantine, and eradication programs. In regions where the disease is still endemic, vaccination can be used as a complementary strategy, combined with the identification and removal of positive animals, aiming to reduce viral circulation.
Laboratory diagnosis is essential for epidemiological surveillance and for the success of control and eradication programs. The Pseudorabies Virus Real-Time PCR Kit constitutes a highly sensitive and specific tool for the detection of viral genetic material in clinical samples, such as tissues, swabs, and biological fluids. The real-time PCR technique allows for the rapid identification of the virus, even in subclinical infections, contributing to precise sanitary decision-making.
The systematic use of molecular methods, combined with continuous surveillance and official control programs, is fundamental to prevent the dissemination of Pseudorabies Virus, protect animal health, and ensure the sustainability of the swine production chain.
In this context, the Bioperfectus Aujeszky’s Disease (Pseudorabies) rapid test represents a practical screening tool to support sanitary surveillance in swine herds. The application of the rapid test enables the agile identification of suspect animals directly in the field, including in the early or subclinical stages of infection, aiding in the immediate adoption of measures such as lot isolation, movement restrictions, the intensification of biosecurity, and the referral of samples for confirmation by molecular methods. In this way, the rapid test complements confirmatory laboratory techniques, contributing to the early detection of PRV, the reduction of viral dissemination, and the strengthening of control and eradication programs for Aujeszky’s Disease.