Systematic review of the elimination methods of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus at the sow farm and regional levels

Background Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-elimination methods vary greatly in their execution in the field. This review of the scientific literature was conducted to synthesize available methods and strategies for PRRSV elimination at the sow farm and regional levels to inform the decision-making of swine producers and veterinarians. Methods PubMed and the Journal of Swine Health and Production were searched for relevant publications on eliminating or eradicating PRRSV on sow farms and at regional levels. No date limit was set. All manuscripts were reviewed independently by at least 2 authors for inclusion with the criteria of being peer reviewed, containing data on eliminating PRRSV from a sow farm or a regional area, and including the method(s) used. Results 25 manuscripts were included from the initial 456 found on the search. The most cited PRRSV-elimination method was herd closure. Other documented farm methods included test and removal (TR), depopulation and repopulation (DRP), gilt acclimation without a herd closure, and a combination of herd closure with TR. Depopulation and repopulation was the most common method in regional control, followed by herd closure.