PRRS epidemiology was another topic discussed at Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. session at the 2015 North American PRRS Symposium. Dr. Andres Perez, University of Minnesota, took to the mic to talk about the best principles of control at the regional level.

“There are a variety of factors to consider. All the way from the demographics of the population and air born transmission to the patterns of movement of the animals and social and economic factors that dictate the decisions the farmers take in controlling the disease.”

Dr. Perez said what might be the best option at the farm level, may not be what’s best for the region. Controlling PRRS is unobtainable unless coordination at different levels is put at the forefront. “Working together and sharing information to make the best use of that information is key.”

There are two factors Dr. Perez said will be game changers in the future. One of those is the economics and social implications. The more known about those factors, the better researchers will be able to aid in combating. The second is the question as to how the data being collected will be handled and utilized.

Listen to my complete interview with Dr. Perez here: Interview with Dr. Andres Perez, University of Minnesota

View and download photos from the event here: 2015 BIVI PRRS Seminar Photo Album