Stability of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in the presence of fomites commonly found on farms.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the survival of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) on nonliving substances (fomites) at 25 to 27 C.

DESIGN

Prospective controlled study.

SAMPLE POPULATION

3 solid, 6 porous, and 7 liquid fomites.

PROCEDURE

The fomites were contaminated with known concentrations of PRRSV. Samples for virus isolation were obtained on day 0 through day 11, assayed in cell cultures, and stained with fluorescent antibody conjugate.

RESULTS

The virus was recovered only on day-0 samples of alfalfa, wood shavings, straw, plastic, boot rubber, and stainless steel. Virus was isolated from city water through day 11, from well water through day 9, and from 2 buffer solutions for 4 and 6 days. The virus was isolated only on day 0 from swine saliva, urine, and fecal slurry.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Results indicated that PRRSV is a fairly labile virus, but because of its duration of viability in water, contamination of drinking water and lagoons by PRRSV-shedding swine would serve as sources of virus to infect susceptible swine.