Purdue Pork Page Archive

What is it?

The cause has not been confirmed, but it is thought that it is a new strain of PRRS virus. Signs in affected herds are similar to those observed in the very first PRRS outbreaks.

How many cases have been reported?

35 suspected cases of SAMS have been reported.

What states has it been reported in?

Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Colorado, Missouri, North Carolina, Minnesota

What are the signs?

• Gestating sows are off feed for 1-2 days
• Sows may have a fever of 104-106 F
• Abortion rates from 5-50% in a 1-5 week period
• Abortions occur at all stages of gestation but mostly in late gestation
• Increased preweaning mortality
• Increased nursery mortality
• Sows deaths have occurred in a few cases
• when sows were moved while aborting or sick
• when late term pigs died in the sow before she farrowed
• Sow death rate ranged from 5-10% in a 1-5 week period
• Outbreaks last up to 3 months

Will my herd be protected if I am already vaccinating for PRRS?

Many cases reported to date were in herds vaccinated for PRRS. Some of these herds had experienced clinical PRRS infection in the past.

What should you do if you suspect SAMS in your herd?

• It is very important to call your veterinarian to get a diagnosis. Other diseases can cause similar signs.
• In at least one herd, feedback worsened signs. Therefore feedback is not recommended until a diagnosis is made.
• Follow strict isolation procedures for any new herd entries.

Purdue Pork Page Archive