Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv) causes severe gastrointestinal disease in pigs, with near-100% mortality in neonatal piglets. Understanding biosecurity and welfare responses is essential for producers.
PEDv outbreaks represent acute welfare crises at the farm level. Neonatal piglets die from dehydration within days — their deaths are typically rapid but involve significant distress. Surviving adults experience prolonged gastrointestinal disturbance, reduced feed intake and weight loss. On farms with active outbreaks, staff must perform mass euthanasia of severely ill piglets, creating both animal welfare and human welfare challenges. The concentration of animals in intensive systems facilitates explosive spread. Farms recovering from outbreaks face the welfare challenge of rebuilding sow immunity and managing the immunological gap in subsequent litters. Effective oral electrolyte therapy, warm environments, and immediate veterinary response can reduce suffering in affected herds.