Investigation of PRRS Virus Infection in Hungarian Wild Boar Populations during Its Eradication from Domestic Pig Herds

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is a common disease in Suidae species that causes significant economic losses in the pig industry. This study investigates PRRS in Hungarian wild boar populations and the efforts for eradication of the virus from domestic pig herds. Given the economic significance of PRRS, understanding its prevalence in wild hosts like wild boar is crucial. We examine whether wild boars in Hungary carry the PRRS virus, the seroconversion rate, and the potential relationship between wild boar and domestic pig populations concerning PRRS infection. Our findings indicate a minimal PRRS infection in wild boars, emphasizing the low risk they pose to the PRRS-free status of domestic pig herds. This research contributes to our understanding of PRRS dynamics in wild populations and supports efforts to maintain disease-free domestic pig herds, ensuring the sustainability of pig farming in Hungary. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) significantly impacts the pig farming industry globally, leading to economic losses due to reduced productivity. This study focuses on assessing the presence and impact of PRRS within Hungarian wild boar populations amidst efforts to eradicate the virus from domestic pig herds. We used a combination of serological and virological tests on samples collected from wild boars across Hungary to evaluate the prevalence of PRRS virus and its potential transmission risks to domestic pigs. Our findings reveal a low seropositivity rate in wild boars, suggesting a minimal role of wild boars in the transmission of PRRS to domestic pig populations. Moreover, no relationship was found between domestic pig and wild boar densities, emphasizing the limited interaction and consequent risk of disease spread between these populations. We confirm the effectiveness of Hungary's PRRS eradication measures among domestic herds and highlight the negligible risk posed by wild boars in re-introducing the PRRS virus.