Research scientists are constantly evaluating technologies for their effectiveness in controlling the spread of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS). Throughout the research process PRRS modified live vaccine virus was applied to two groups of different surfaces and materials commonly seen in a pork production unit. One set of these items was exposed to UV₂₅₄ radiation treatments and the control group was exposed to incandescent light, each for 24 hours. During this time both treatments were swabbed at 10 minute intervals for 0 to 60 minutes post application time and again at 24 hours post application. Each swab was tested for the quantity of PRRSV RNA and the presence of viable PRRS virus.

The results from the study show a significant reduction in viable PRRS virus in the treatment group. At 24 hours post application a reduction in the quantity of PRRS virus RNA was demonstrated in the control group, which was exposed to incandescent light. For the group of materials that received treatment via UV₂₅₄ radiation, a reduction of viable virus was observed at 60 minutes, with 0 out of 12 samples remaining positive for the virus. In comparison, the control group resulted in 5 out of 12 samples remained positive for the virus with incandescent light treatment. Furthermore all samples collected between 10 and 50 minutes after application that received UV₂₅₄ treatment were found negative for viable PRRS virus. The results seen from this study work to further the theory that UV₂₅₄ can be an effective method to control the spread of the PRRSV on materials commonly found in pork production.

More information on this study can be found in the Journal of Veterinary Microbiology, article titled: An evaluation of ultraviolet light (UV₂₅₄) as a means to inactivate porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus on common farm surfaces and materials.