Sample-level PRRSV RT-PCR prevalence in pigs in mainland China (2004-2025) A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Clinical Context

Peer-reviewed veterinary literature continues to shape everyday decision-making for production animal practice, especially when new evidence clarifies diagnosis, treatment selection, monitoring, or clinical outcomes.

What the Study Evaluated

A study published in Preventive veterinary medicine in 2026 evaluated sample-level PRRSV RT-PCR prevalence in pigs in mainland China (2004-2025): A systematic review and meta-analysis..

Key Findings

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus is associated with substantial costs for the global pig industry. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 71 cross-sectional surveys (307,863 pig specimens from 27 provinces, 2004-2025) to quantify long-term spatiotemporal trends and associated factors of sample-level PRRSV RT-PCR positivity in mainland China. The overall pooled PRRSV RT-PCR positivity was 32% (95% CI: 29-34%) with high between-study heterogeneity (I² = 99%, P < 0.001); this estimate summarizes diverse study populations and does not represent uniform national prevalence. Pooled prevalence declined from 36%...

Why It Matters for Veterinary Professionals

For veterinary professionals, the practical value of this work lies in how the findings may support more structured clinical assessment, clearer monitoring, and more informed decisions for production animal practice.

Practical Interpretation

The results should be interpreted in the context of the study design, population, inclusion criteria, and clinical setting. Application in practice should consider patient-specific risk factors, available diagnostics, local standards of care, and clinician judgment.

Clinical Takeaway

Overall, the study adds useful evidence for clinicians seeking to align daily practice with current veterinary research while maintaining a balanced, case-by-case approach.

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