Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) is a highly contagious viral pathogen that specifically affects pigs, causing severe gastroenteritis. It belongs to the Coronaviridae family and is characterized by its ability to be transmitted through direct contact or fecal-oral routes, leading to the rapid spread of the infection within pig populations. TGEV primarily targets the cells lining the small intestine, resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and significant weight loss.
The TGEV has a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome, which encodes structural and non-structural proteins necessary for its replication and pathogenesis. It is a member of the Alphacoronavirus genus within the Coronaviridae family, which also includes other important human and animal coronaviruses such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
The clinical signs of TGEV infection can vary in severity, depending on the age and immune status of the affected pigs. In young piglets, TGEV can be particularly devastating, resulting in high mortality rates due to the severe dehydration caused by fluid loss. In older animals, symptoms may be milder and mainly manifest as diarrhea and weight loss.
Prevention and control measures for TGEV primarily involve strict biosecurity measures to limit transmission, including quarantine, disinfection, and restricted access for personnel. Vaccination programs can also be implemented to stimulate immunity in susceptible populations, reducing the severity and impact of the disease.
