Abstract

Inclusion Body Rhinitis, also known as IBR or Cytomegalic Inclusion Disease, is a pig disease caused by porcine cytomegalovirus, which is a member of the herpesvirus family. It is a notifiable disease that is found worldwide. It is spread both vertically and horizontally and prevalence is high.

It is not a zoonosis but the risk to humans that receive pig organ transplants is currently under investigation.

Clinical signs

Clinical signs are normally only seen in either piglets less than 3 weeks old or pregnant sows.

Signs in piglets include rhinitis, pneumonia, anaemia, fever and sudden death. Black discoloration around the eyes is often seen and gastrointestinal and neurological signs are also reported.

Signs in pregnant sows include reproductive failure, genital ulceration and agalactia.

Diagnosis

A presumptive diagnosis can be made based on the history and clinical signs. Definitive diagnosis is achieved by direct or indirect fluorescent antibody testing (FAT), PCR, post mortem (signs include petechia and pulmonary congestion), histopathology or electron microscopy.

Treatment and control

Often no treatment is required. However, as porcine cytomegalovirus is a herpes virus it remains latent and sheds at times of stress. Therefore husbandry measures to minimise stress levels should be in place.