The infectious agent responsible is a virus CSFV (previously called hog cholera virus) of the genus Pestivirus in the family Flaviviridae ([1]). CSFV is closely related to the ruminant pestiviruses which cause Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVDV) and Border Disease (BDV).^[1]

The effect of different CSFV strains varies widely, leading to a wide range of symptoms. Highly virulent strains correlate with acute, obvious disease and high mortality, including neurological symptoms and hemorrhages within the skin.

Less virulent strains can give rise to subacute or chronic infections that may escape detection, while still inducing mortality in fetuses and new-borns.

Infected piglets birthed from infected but subclinical sows help maintain the disease within a population. Other symptoms can include lethargy, fever, immunosuppression and secondary respiratory infections. The incubation period of CSFV ranges from 2 to 14 days but symptoms may not be apparent until after 2 to 4 weeks. Animals with an acute infection can survive 2 to 3 months before their eventual death.

Eradicating CSF is problematic. Current programmes revolve around rapid detection and diagnosis, and preventive culol, possibly followed by emergency vaccination. Possible sources for maintaining and introducing infection include the wide transport of pigs and pork products, as well as endemic CSF within wild boar and feral pig populations.