© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Deadly piglet virus hits farms statewide, nationally

Wikimedia Commons

Pig farmers in Michigan and around the nation are losing piglets to a virus that is easily spread and almost always lethal to very young animals. So far, it’s killed over six million piglets.Dr. Madonna Benjamin is an assistant professor at MSU and the Extension Swine Veterinarian. She spoke with Current State’s Melissa Benmark about the disease and its impact.

Dr. Benjamin says the virus attacks the lining of the small intestine and adversely affects the absorption of food or sow's milk.

Related Content
Together we’ve already reduced WKAR’s $1.6 million budget gap created by the loss of federal funding. With your sustaining support we can close the remaining $500,000 gap and keep trusted public media strong for mid-Michigan. The best way to support WKAR is to become a sustainer. Already a sustainer? Please consider upgrading your current monthly gift.