December 7, 2007

New virus in Australian pigs

Australian researchers recently found a new type of virus that causes high mortality in piglets.

The virus has been detected in the Australian state of New South Wales.

Infection with this virus results in inflammation of the heart muscle, which subsequently results in sudden death among piglets.

More stillborn and mummified piglets have been observed in Australia.

Scientists named the disease porcine myocarditis syndrome. According to the research team, this new type of virus belongs to the group of Pesti viruses.