Seneca Valley Virus (SVV) was recently diagnosed in pigs in the United States. The virus has also been found in South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. The virus is a non-enveloped single-stranded RNA virus of the family Picronaviradae. Foot and Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV) and swine vesicular disease virus are also a member of this same viral family. Experts have not been able to determine how SVV is spread between farms, but transportation vehicles is suspected.

Clinical signs of SVV

• Vesicles and coalescing erosions on the snouts and coronary bands
• Acute lameness in a group of pigs
• Ulcerative lesions on or around the hoof wall
• Anorexia, lethargy and/or febrile; in the early course of the disease, fevers up to 105 degrees F have been reported

Since the vesicles are indistinguishable from FMDV, vesicular stomatitis, swine vesicular disease, and vesicular exanthema of swine a foreign animal disease investigation must be done quickly.  Please contact your private veterinary if a blister appears on the nose, mouth, or feet. 

Hog producers identifying any signs of vesicular disease must immediately report to the State Veterinarian's office at (701)328-2655 or 800-242-7535.  Any movement from the farm is temporarily halted until directed by state and federal authorities.  Hogs with lesions or any other listed clinical signs should not be taken to slaughter.