By Scout Nelson
A Kansas State University distinguished professor is leading critical research to address the growing threat of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) to U.S. swine health.
Funded by the Swine Health Information Center and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research, the study is part of a $1.3 million initiative across six research projects aimed at enhancing prevention, preparedness, and response capabilities for JEV.
JEV is a zoonotic pathogen transmitted by infected mosquitoes and poses significant risks to swine breeding herds. It can cause reproductive failures, including abortions, stillbirths, and weak piglets. Recognized as a transboundary disease, JEV threatens to emerge in the U.S., requiring immediate research and mitigation efforts.
The principal investigator, a distinguished professor at K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, is developing a pregnant sow model to study JEV genotype IV. The project involves conducting infection trials at three key gestational stages across two study centers. The goal is to analyze the pathobiological impact of the virus on in utero infections and compare results across the centers.
"This is an exciting project studying an emerging zoonotic pathogen in collaboration with our Australian colleagues," the professor explained. "Understanding the potential impact of this virus on pregnant sows will allow us to rapidly respond and mitigate the risk of this emerging swine disease threat."
The project is a collaboration with the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong, Australia, highlighting the international effort to address this critical health risk.
By developing harmonized methods for analysis and exploring JEV's impact on swine, the research aims to provide actionable strategies to enhance preparedness and minimize risks to the U.S. swine industry. This work is vital to ensuring swine health and mitigating the threat of emerging diseases in agriculture.
Photo Credit:kansas-state-university
Categories: Kansas, General