PCV2 infection in pigs is a worldwide problem. PCV2 vaccinated pigs can be differentiated from PVC2 infected pigs. BacuCheck^TM ELISA provides evidence of Porcilis^® PCV vaccination by detecting antibodies against baculovirus used in the production of the ORF2 coded subunit. This study demonstrates its practical use in international trade.

From November 2011, a German finishing farm purchased batches of 10-week old PCV2-vaccinated pigs from a Danish producer which were blood sampled on arrival, and the sera tested with BacuCheck^TM ELISA, and with Synbiotics Serelisa^® to detect and quantify PCV2 antibodies. This combination showed that Porcilis® PCV had been used correctly at group level. This accords with the results in vaccinated animals of 6 to 12 weeks old in ongoing routine diagnostics in various other field trials.

Negative results need to be assessed properly, by individual interpretation, which takes account of the effect of dose volume, administration technique, concurrent use of other products, the animals’ age, health and MDA levels at time of vaccination. With the cooperation of piglet supplying- and finishers receiving farms, this trial showed that the test is a useful tool for strengthening international pig trade.