Electrochemical evaluation of the de-/re-activation of oxygen evolving Ir oxide.

Understanding the influence of dynamic and stationary polarization on the deactivation of state-of-the-art IrOx catalysts is imperative for the design and operation of robust and efficient proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers. In this work, the deactivation and activity regeneration of a commercial IrOx catalyst were investigated under potentiodynamic and potentiostatic conditions in acidic media using rotating disk electrode and electrogravimetry methods. Systematic electrochemical protocols were designed to decouple reversible from irreversible activity losses. Cyclic voltammetry provided a metric of the active surface area and traced the charge growth under different oxygen evolution reaction conditions. A direct log t dependent charge growth is observed, accompanied by the same fractional kinetic activity decay under potentiodynamic conditions. The loss is essentially recoverable after electrochemical reductive treatment, however at the expense of mild material dissolution. In contrast, an extended potentiostatic operation induced irreversible intrinsic degradation after a critical time (0.5-1 h), accompanied by stability enhancement. This irreversible deactivation is attributed to a gradual transformation of the hydrated IrOx to a dehydrated condensed oxide. Our results suggest that Ir dissolution during the regenerative treatment is not prohibitive, as long as the low potential modulations are not frequent.

Exposure Biomarkers and Histopathological Analysis in Pig Liver After Exposure to Mycotoxins Under Field Conditions: Special Report on Fumonisin B1.

Liver samples from finisher pigs were collected at the slaughterhouses for the analysis of zearalenone (ZEA), alfa-/beta-zearalenone (α-ZE, ß-ZE), zearalanone (ZA), alfa-/beta-ZA (α-ZA, ß-ZA), aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxin M1, fumonisin B1 (FB1), ochratoxin A (OTA) and ochratoxin B, deoxynivalenol and deepoxi-deoxynivalenol (DOM-1). For the analysis liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole coupled with mass spectrometry was applied. Liver samples with detected FB1 were further histopathologically evaluated after hematoxylin and eosin staining. Various levels of liver mycotoxins were detected in all farms. Pig livers with 2.91-8.30 µg/kg of FB1 were detected in three farms, estimate of 850-2400 µg/kg of FB1 intake, whereas 0.54 µg/kg of OTA was detected in one farm, estimate of 75 µg/kg of OTA intake. Moreover, pig livers with 0.30 µg/kg of ZEA, 1.87 µg/kg of α-ZE, and 0.63 µg/kg of ß-ZE were detected in one farm, estimate with of 300 µg/kg of ZEA intake. The histopathological analysis revealed that the lesions' grading and necrosis grading were analogously increased when FB1 concentration increased from 2.91 to 4.36-8.30 µg/kg. The severity of megalocytosis was analogously increased with FB1 detection levels and particularly in levels of 4.36-8.3 µg/kg. However, the increased FB1 detection levels did not show analogous behavior with the severity of hepatic cell vacuolization. Results showed that FB1 remained the most critical risk factor in the Greek pig industry, whereas ZEA and AFB1 were also prevalent. The OTA contamination in pig farms raised a high risk for animal and human health.

Screening for Viruses in Indigenous Greek Black Pigs.

The successful advancement of xenotransplantation has led to the development of highly sensitive detection systems for the screening of potentially zoonotic viruses in donor pigs and preventing their transmission to the recipient. To validate these methods, genetically modified pigs generated for xenotransplantation, numerous minipigs and other pig breeds have been tested, thereby increasing our knowledge concerning the pig virome and the distribution of pig viruses. Of particular importance are the porcine cytomegalovirus, a porcine roseolovirus (PCMV/PRV) and the hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV3). PCMV/PRV has been shown to reduce the survival time of pig transplants in non-human primates and was also transmitted in the first pig heart transplantation to a human patient. The main aim of this study was to determine the sensitivities of our methods to detect PCMV/PRV, HEV3, porcine lymphotropic herpesvirus-1 (PLHV-1), PLHV-2, PLHV-3, porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2), PCV3, PCV4 and porcine parvovirus 1 (PPV1) and to apply the methods to screen indigenous Greek black pigs. The high number of viruses found in these animals allowed for the evaluation of numerous detection methods. Since porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) type A and B are integrated in the genome of all pigs, but PERV-C is not, the animals were screened for PERV-C and PERV-A/C. Our detection methods were sensitive and detected PCMV/PRV, PLHV-1, PLHV-1, PLHV-3, PVC3 and PERV-C in most animals. PPV1, HEV3, PCV4 and PERV-A/C were not detected. These data are of great interest since the animals are healthy and resistant to diseases.

Can computerized rumen mucosal colorimetry serve as an effective field test for managing subacute ruminal acidosis in feedlot cattle?

Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is one of the major nutritional disorders in the dairy and beef industries, leading to significant financial losses. Diagnosing SARA is challenging due to the need to evaluate multiple parameters, such as milk fat/protein ratio, ruminal lactate, and hemogram, instead of relying on a single definitive symptom or diagnostic method. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of computerized rumen colorimetry in detecting SARA in beef cattle. Over one year, 75 cattle aged 8-10 months from five farms were periodically monitored for rumen pH prior to slaughter. Samples of rumen wall and rumen content were obtained at slaughter for analysis. The study found a positive correlation coefficient between rumen pH and color components, particularly for Red (0.853) and color lightness (L) (0.862). The darkening of the rumen epithelium's color was attributed to the effect of rumen pH on the keratinized layer of the epithelium. Furthermore, an increase in the thickness of ruminal epithelium layers, particularly non-keratinized and total epithelium, was observed in animals with a history of SARA. It is possible that the lower rumen pH increases the rate of replacement of the keratinized epithelium, and the non-keratinized epithelium overgrows to compensate for the need to of produce keratinized layers. In conclusion, computerized rumen colorimetry shows promise as a reliable method for managing SARA in bovine farms by monitoring the condition in the slaughterhouse. Further research is needed to evaluate its effectiveness in detecting SARA in live animals.

Effects of a Curcumin/Silymarin/Yeast-Based Mycotoxin Detoxifier on Redox Status and Growth Performance of Weaned Piglets under Field Conditions.

The aim of this in vivo study was to investigate the effects of a novel mycotoxin detoxifier whose formulation includes clay (bentonite and sepiolite), phytogenic feed additives (curcumin and silymarin) and postbiotics (yeast products) on the health, performance and redox status of weaned piglets under the dietary challenge of fumonisins (FUMs). The study was conducted in duplicate in the course of two independent trials on two different farms. One hundred and fifty (150) weaned piglets per trial farm were allocated into two separate groups: (a) T1 (control group): 75 weaned piglets received FUM-contaminated feed and (b) T2 (experimental group): 75 weaned piglets received FUM-contaminated feed with the mycotoxin-detoxifying agent from the day of weaning (28 days) until 70 days of age. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARSs), protein carbonyls (CARBs) and the overall antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed in plasma as indicators of redox status at 45 and 70 days of age. Furthermore, mortality and performance parameters were recorded at 28, 45 and 70 days of age, while histopathological examination was performed at the end of the trial period (day 70). The results of the present study reveal the beneficial effects of supplementing a novel mycotoxin detoxifier in the diets of weaners, including improved redox status, potential hepatoprotective properties and enhanced growth performance.

Overview of Swine Congenital Malformations Associated with Abnormal Twinning.

A review of congenital malformations in swine relating to abnormal twinning was carried out. The aim was to describe and estimate these defects. Among the recorded twins, the most common defect was the syncephalus thoracopagus or cephalothoracopagus. A couple of dicephali and diprosopus congenital anomalies were also registered. At last, some cases of thoraco-omphalopagus piglets were surveyed. There was also a report of an acardiac twin (hemiacardius acephalus) and a case of a conjoined parasitic twin. The pathogenetic mechanisms of this condition, frequently reported in veterinary practice, are discussed. The importance of embryonic imperfect twinning is commonly associated with dystocia.

Animal Health and Productivity of Organic Greek Pig Farms: The Current Situation and Prospects for Sustainability.

A review of organic pig production in Greece was carried out. The aim was to present updated information on the production, development and health status of organic pig farming in Greece and potential prospects for sustainability and future development. The indigenous Greek Black Pig is the main breed reared in Greek organic pig farms. All the reasons why Greek Black Pig breeding is ideal for organic farming are mentioned. Furthermore, respiratory and parasitic infections are the most common health problems, while high piglet mortality rates are the main welfare issue in Greek organic pig farming. Concerns about how farmers and authorities should utilize the demands of modern consumers are discussed.

Evaluation of porcine circovirus type 2 double vaccination in weaning piglets that reared for gilts under field conditions.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of a porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) double vaccination in weaning piglets reared for gilts under field conditions. The study was conducted at a Greek farrow-to-finish conventional pig farm with a previous history of PCV2 infections. The trial included 96 female piglets at 21 days of age, which were equally allocated to two different study groups. Piglets of the group-1 received a single PCV2 vaccination at 21 days of age, while piglets of the group-2 were double vaccinated against PCV2, at 21 and 42 days of age. The results indicated that the piglets of group-2 had better growth performance, as they showed higher body weight (BW) and average daily weight gain (ADWG). In addition, ELISA tests showed that the double- vaccinated piglets presented a better humoral response against PCV2, as higher levels of IgG antibodies were detected in them than the piglets of the group-1. In conclusion, the current results suggested that a double PCV2 vaccination of piglets, reared for gilts, on a PCV2-affected farm could lead to higher protection against the virus.

Effects of a Multi-Component Mycotoxin-Detoxifying Agent on Oxidative Stress, Health and Performance of Sows.

This in vivo study aimed to investigate the effects of a multi-component mycotoxin-detoxifying agent, containing clays (bentonite, sepiolite), phytogenic feed additives (curcumin, silymarin) and postbiotics (yeast cell wall, hydrolyzed yeast) on the antioxidant capacity, health and reproductive performance of pregnant and lactating sows challenged by mycotoxins. Eighty (80) primiparous sows (mean age 366 ± 3 days) per each of the two trial farms were divided into two groups in each farm: a) T1 (control group): 40 sows received the contaminated feed and b) T2 group (experimental group): 40 sows received the contaminated feed plus the mycotoxin-detoxifying agent, one month before farrowing until the end of the lactation period. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyls (CARBS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were evaluated as biomarkers of oxidative stress. Clinical and reproductive parameters were recorded. Our results indicate that the administration of a multi-component mycotoxin-detoxifying agent's administration in sow feed has beneficial effects on oxidative stress biomarkers and can improve sows' health and performance.

Effects of Injectable Administration of Dexamethasone Alone or in Combination with Vitamin E/Se in Newborn Low Birth Weight Piglets.

Increasing litter size may lead to low-birth-weight piglets (LBW) and further negative long-term effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of intramuscular administration (IM) of dexamethasone (Dexa) alone or in combination with vitamin E/Se on LBW piglets during the early postnatal period. The study included a total of 100 LBW piglets that were divided into 5 groups (20 LBW piglets per group) and treated with IM Dexa alone or in combination with vitamin E/Se (Vit E/Se) after birth as follows: (a) Group A-Cont: Control group, (b) Group B-Dexa1: Dexa on D1 (1st day of life), (c) Group C-Dexa3: Dexa on D1, D2, D3 (D2: 2nd day of life, D3: 3rd day of life), (d) Group D-Dexa + VitE/S1: Dexa + Vit E/Se on D1, and (e) Group E-Dexa + VitE/S3: Dexa + Vit E/Se (IM) on D1, D2, D3. Body weight (BW) and the Average Daily Weight Gain (ADWG) were recorded for all piglets on days 1, 7, 14, and 25, and vitality score (VS) was recorded on days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 14. A significant increase in BW and ADWG in Group E-Dexa + VitE/S3 and a significant reduction in Group C-Dexa3 were noticed in comparison to other groups. VS in groups Group B-Dexa1 and Group C-Dexa3 were significantly lower in comparison to other groups. Furthermore, piglets of Group C-Dexa3 had a significantly higher frequency of clinical findings compared to other groups. In conclusion, the administration of Dexa and vitamin E/Se combined after the birth of LBW piglets for 1-3 days has beneficial effects on their growth and survival scores.

Histopathological lesions of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serotype 8 in infected pigs.

This study aimed to report, for the first time, histopathological lesions caused by an outbreak of acute Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serotype 8 infections in two farms in Cyprus. Lung tissue samples were collected from two different affected farms (a total of eight samples) for bacterial culture, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based serotyping and histopathological evaluation. Severe respiratory clinical signs, vomiting, anorexia, sudden deaths, a morbidity rate of around 25.00% and a mortality rate of over 60.00% in the fattening stage were reported. Macroscopic lesions included acute to subacute fibrotic, hemorrhagic and necrotizing pneumonia with occasionally encapsulated nodule-like abscesses and fibrous pleuritis. Histopathological evaluation revealed fibrous exudate between alveolar spaces and connective tissue, areas of necrosis mixed with alveolar macrophages, lymphocytes, plasma cells and necrotic leukocytes surrounding colonies of cocci. The bronchial and bronchiolar epithelia were degenerated and replaced by eosinophilic cell debris mixed with inflammatory cells. Several arteries and capillaries were clotted and/or infiltrated by inflammatory cells. In conclusion, these A. pleuropneumoniae serotype 8 cases were accompanied by acute illness, death and more pronounced bronchitis and bronchiolitis.

Hepatic Coccidiosis in Wild Rabbits in Greece: Parasite Detection on Liver Imprints and the Associated Biochemical Profile.

(1) Background: Rabbit hepatic coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria stiedae, is a devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. The disease is well described in rabbits, but little is known about E. stiedae infection in wild rabbits. In this study, we investigated the presence of E. stiedae infection in wild rabbits from the island of Lemnos, Greece, where this species is overpopulated, and the effects of infection on common hepatic biomarkers. (2) Methods: We used liver impression smears to detect the coccidian oocysts, and we defined the liver biochemical profile of the infected individuals. (3) Results: Overall, 13.3% of the liver imprints examined were positive for the presence of coccidial oocysts. The activities of liver enzymes, that is, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamyltransferase (GGT), as well as globulins (GLOB), were increased while the concentrations of albumins (ALB), total proteins (TP) and the albumin to globulin (A/G) ratio were decreased in the infected individuals compared to the non-infected ones. (4) Conclusions: This study adds to the current knowledge on the pathogens affecting wild rabbits and those circulating in this population on the island of Lemnos, Greece. Moreover, we showed that E. stiedae infection exerts pathological effects on the hepatocyte integrity and liver function of wild rabbits, as reflected by the abnormal values of liver injury and dysfunction biomarkers.

Seroprevalence of Swine Influenza A Virus (swIAV) Infections in Commercial Farrow-to-Finish Pig Farms in Greece.

Swine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza A virus infection. Pigs play an important role in the overall epidemiology of influenza because of their ability to transmit influenza viruses of avian and human origin, which plays a potential role in the emergence of zoonotic strains with pandemic potential. The aim of our study was to assess the seroprevalence of Swine Influenza Viruses (swIAVs) in commercial pig farms in Greece. A total of 1416 blood samples were collected from breeding animals (gilts and sows) and pigs aged 3 weeks to market age from 40 different swIAV vaccinated and unvaccinated commercial farrow-to-finish pig farms. For the detection of anti-SIV antibodies, sera were analyzed using an indirect ELISA kit CIVTEST SUIS INFLUENZA®, Hipra (Amer, Spain). Of the total 1416 animals tested, 498 were seropositive, indicating that the virus circulates in both vaccinated (54% seroprevalence) and unvaccinated Greek pig farms (23% seroprevalence). In addition, maternally derived antibody (MDA) levels were lower in pigs at 4 and 7 weeks of age in unvaccinated farms than in vaccinated farms. In conclusion, our results underscore the importance of vaccination as an effective tool for the prevention of swIAV infections in commercial farrow-to-finish pig farms.

Histopathological Pulmonary Lesions in 1st-Day Newborn Piglets Derived from PRRSV-1 MLV Vaccinated Sows at the Last Stage of Gestation.

Modified live virus (MLV) vaccines for the control of porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus (PRRSV) have been associated with the vertical and horizontal transmission of vaccine viruses. The present study aimed to describe pathological lung lesions in piglets born by gilts vaccinated with PRRSV-1 MLV. In total, 25 gilts were vaccinated at late gestation (100th day) and were divided into five groups according to the different vaccines (Vac) used: no vaccine-control group, Vac-1-strain DV, Vac-2-strain VP-046 BIS, Vac-3-strain 94881, Vac-4-strain 96V198. Within the first 0-9 h of the farrowing, blood samples were collected from all newborn piglets and lung samples were exanimated grossly, histopathologically and with scanning electron microscopy. PRRSV (RT-PCR-positive) and antibodies were detected in the serum of piglets from gilts vaccinated with Vac-2. In these piglets, moderate to severe interstitial pneumonia with thickened alveolar septa was noticed. Type II pneumocyte hyperplasia was also observed. The rest of the trial piglets showed unremarkable lung lesions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the 98.7% similarity of the PRRSV field strain (GR 2019-1) to the PRRS MLV vaccine strain VP-046 BIS. In conclusion, the Vac-2 PRRSV vaccine strain can act as an infectious strain when vaccination is administrated at late gestation, causing lung lesions.

Modeling, Degradation Study, Failures Diagnosis and Faulty Operating Management of Electrolyzers.

Hydrogen is considered an effective solution to deliver or store energy [...].

Heterologous Challenge with PRRSV-1 MLV in Pregnant Vaccinated Gilts: Potential Risk on Health and Immunity of Piglets.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential risks of the four commercial PRRS-1 MLV vaccines in pregnant vaccinated gilts at the last stage of gestation under field conditions. The study was conducted at four pig farms, including 25 gilts from each farm (25 × 4 = 100 gilts), which were equally allocated to five different study groups. A PRRS-1 MLV vaccination was applied on the 100th day of their pregnancy with the different commercial vaccines that are available in the Greek market. The results indicated virus congenital infection and viremia in piglets (20/200 = 10% PRRSV infected piglets), and detection of PRRSV-specific antibodies (181/200 = 90.5% piglets found with PRRSV antibodies). The subsequent phylogenetic analyses revealed high percentages of similarity between the PRRSV-1 strain detected in infected litters and the PRRSV-1 vaccine strain to which the study gilts had been previously exposed to. Health status analyses of trial piglets resulted in differences between litters from vaccinated sows and litters from non-vaccinated sows at 110th day of gestation as regards the number of weak-born piglets, mummies, and piglets with splay-leg and/or respiratory symptoms. The current study's results indicate several potential dangers of the PRRS MLV vaccination in late gestation.

Occurrence and Associated Risk Factors of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus and Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Infections in Greece.

The objective of the present study was to identify factors associated with the probability of being polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive and the level of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) occurrence in Greek farms. The study included 56 pig farms, with a total population of 22.500 sows, which represent about 40% of the entire capacity of the Greek swine production. A total of 896 blood samples (224 pools*4 samples/pool = 896 samples) from breeding stock, weaners, growers, and finishers were collected from each farm and organized in pools of 4 samples size. Further, data regarding herd health management protocols were collected. The sera were tested for PRRSV and PCV2, using real-time PCR (RT-PCR). The results indicated that both viruses remain a major challenge for the Greek swine industry. Main risk factors involved in the infection process by these viruses were identified. In particular, vaccination programs such as the mass PRRSV vaccination with modified-live virus (MLV) in breeding stock during the last stages of gestation or with killed-virus (KV) during the middle of gestation are more likely to be associated with PRRSV PCR-positivity. Farms with low biosecurity level are associated with higher PRRSV circulation. It has also been revealed that breeding stock is more likely to be associated with PCV2 circulation compared to weaners and growers. In conclusion, our results could be the basis of the development of surveillance protocols for a national monitoring system for PRRSV and PCV2, which could prevent future infection of Greek farms.

Evaluation of an on-farm method to assess colostrum IgG content in hyperprolific sows.

The colostrum quality (immunoglobulin content) is one of the most challenging aspects for hyperprolific sows in the modern pig industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate relationships among sow body condition scores, litter characteristics, and colostrum IgG content in hyperprolific sows, using a digital Brix refractometer to measure IgG. Samples (5 ml) were collected from two hundred and eighty-seven sows within the first hour postpartum. Sow parameters and back fat thickness at farrowing (BFF) and weaning (BFW) were recorded. The results indicate a positive correlation between parity and IgG, as well as BFF and BFW. A negative correlation was found between the number of weaning piglets and BFW. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between the number of mummified piglets and colostrum IgG. Finally, lactation duration was positively associated with BFF. In conclusion, the number of mummified piglets is a factor positively associated with colostrum IgG content in hyperprolific sows.

Effects of Phenolic Phytogenic Feed Additives on Certain Oxidative Damage Biomarkers and the Performance of Primiparous Sows Exposed to Heat Stress under Field Conditions.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two commercial phenolic phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) on sows under heat stress conditions of high summer temperatures for seven days before and seven days after the farrowing. The PFA-1 product was a mixture based on the plants Emblica officinalis, Foeniculum vulgare, Citrus sinensis and nut fiber, while the PFA-2 product was a mixture based on plants Andrographis paniculata, Glycyrrhizia glabra, Tinospora cordifolia and nut fiber. A total of 48 primiparous sows were divided into three groups: T1-control group: regular gestation (GF) and lactation feed (LF); T2 group: regular GF and LF supplemented with PFA-1; T3 group: regular GF and LF supplemented with PFA-2. Each sow in the T2 and T3 groups received 5 g daily of the PFA-1 and PFA-2 product, respectively, for seven days before and seven days after the farrowing. Blood samples were collected from all groups 24 h after farrowing. Thiobarbituric acid--reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyl (CARB) concentrations were determined in the sow plasma. The body condition scoring (BCS) and the backfat of sows on the farrowing and weaning days along with reproductive parameters and litter characteristics were recorded. The highest number of stillborn piglets and the largest interval from weaning to estrus were observed in the T1 group. The lowest number of alive 24 h after birth and weaning piglets and the lowest BCS and backfat at weaning were also recorded in the T1 group. TBARS and CARB concentrations were significant higher in the T1 group compared to all other groups. In conclusion, the use of phenolic PFAs seems to reduce oxidative damage caused by heat stress and ameliorate performance in primiparous sows.

Evaluation of Intradermal PRRSV MLV Vaccination of Suckling Piglets on Health and Performance Parameters under Field Conditions.

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes respiratory disease in weaning and growing pigs. A vaccination against PRRSV is one of the most important control measures. This trial aimed to evaluate the effect of the intradermal (ID) administration of a PRRSV-1 modified live virus (MLV) vaccine in comparison to the intramuscular (IM) administration on the piglets' health and performance. A total of 187 suckling piglets of a PRRSV-positive commercial farrow-to-finish farm were assigned to four groups: group A­PRRSV ID, group B­PRRSV IM, group C­control ID, and group D­control IM. At 2 weeks of age, all the study piglets were either vaccinated with a PRRSV-1 MLV vaccine or injected with the vaccine adjuvant (controls). The collected blood serum samples were tested by ELISA and qRT-PCR. The side effects, body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), mortality rate, and lung and pleurisy lesions scores (LLS, PLS) were also recorded. The ELISA results indicated that the vaccination induced an important seroconversion at 4 and 7 weeks. Significant differences in the qRT-PCR results were noticed only at 10 weeks in group A vs. group C (p < 0.01) and group B vs. group C (p < 0.05). High viral loads, as evidenced by the qRT-PCR Ct values, were noticed in animals of both non-vaccinated groups at 7, 10, and 13 weeks. An ID vaccination has a positive impact on the BW at the piglets' slaughter, while both an ID and IM vaccination had a positive impact on the ADG. The mortality rate was lower in vaccinated groups at the finishing stage. The LLS and PLS were significantly lower in the vaccinated groups. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the ID vaccination of suckling piglets with a PRRSV-1 MLV vaccine has a positive effect on the piglets' health and performance, including an improved BW and a lower LLS and PLS index at their slaughter, as well as a decreased mortality rate at the growing/finishing stage.