By Claudia Sevillano
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most damaging diseases in pig farming, causing illness during all stages of production. However, new research from Topigs Norsvin confirms that traditional breeding can be used to help combat this disease.
At Topigs Norsvin, researchers have been analyzing data collected from pigs reared under disease-challenged conditions since 2018. Their goal? To identify pigs that are naturally more resilient to PRRS challenge —and, if that resilience can be passed on to the next generation
In a recent study, researchers selected boars based on predicted genetic merit for disease resilience. They then compared two groups of pigs: one sired by boars with high genetic merit for disease resilience (High Resilient), and another by boars with low genetic merit for this trait (Low Resilient).
The results were striking. Pigs sired by High Resilient boars had a significantly lower mortality rate (18.6%) compared to the Low Resilient group (24.2%). Progeny of High Resilient boars also grew faster, gaining 360 grams per day, versus 320 grams.
Results from this study show that selecting pigs for enhanced, natural disease resilience can make a real difference. It’s a promising step toward healthier herds, reduced losses, and more sustainable farming.
Natural genetic variation in disease resilience, it turns out, might be one of the strongest tools we have in the fight against PRRS.
