(Factsheet) 58-2

Aujeszky's Disease

Last reviewed February 2009

Australian Situation

Aujeszky's disease has never been reported in Australia.

This disease is nationally notifiable in Australia. Please consult Australia's National Notifiable Disease List for further information.

An 'AUSVETPLAN Disease Strategy Manual' describing control measures in the event of an outbreak of this disease is available in the AUSVETPLAN section of this website.

Disease Summary

Aujeszky's disease (also referred to as pseudorabies or mad itch) is a viral disease predominantly affecting pigs that causes neural, respiratory and reproductive signs. Mortality rates may be high, particularly in young pigs. Infection can also occur in a range of other domestic and wild animals, usually through contact with affected pigs. The disease does not occur in humans.

The OIE website provides a link to a 'Disease Card' providing further information.

World Distribution

More information on this OIE-listed disease, including worldwide disease status and distribution, is available on the OIE Website and the World Animal Health Information Database (WAHID) website.