Epidemiology and Emerging Trends of Zoonotic Viral Diseases of Pigs in India

1. Introduction

Pigs occupy a unique position in global agriculture and public health due to their economic importance and role as reservoirs for numerous zoonotic pathogens. The intensification of pig farming and increasing human-pig interactions have heightened the risk of zoonotic disease transmission thereby necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the associated health risks as well as their emerging trends. The dynamic interplay of environmental, agricultural and societal factors has contributed to the emergence and re-emergence of zoonotic diseases linked to pigs [1,2]. Pigs act as amplifying hosts for a wide array of pathogens, with zoonotic viral diseases posing the most significant challenges due to their ability to cause large-scale outbreaks and cross-species transmission [3]. Climate change, land-use alterations, and expanding vector habitats further exacerbate these risks, increasing the likelihood of novel disease outbreaks and the re-emergence of pathogens [4]. The growing evidence of potential zoonotic viruses in neighboring regions stresses the importance of inclusion of surveillance systems and a proactive One Health approach to sense and spot the threat of zoonoses in India. Table 1 highlights the prevalent zoonotic viruses of pigs in India, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted research and intervention strategies to address the risks associated with these pathogens.

2. Major Zoonotic Viral Diseases of Pigs in India

2.1. Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV)

Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a zoonotic flavivirus that poses a significant public health challenge in India [5]. First identified in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu in 1955, the virus has since spread across various states, becoming a perennial threat [6]. JEV is primarily transmitted by Culex species mosquitoes, which thrive in waterlogged regions and rice paddies conditions prevalent in rural India [7]. Pigs and water birds act as amplifying reservoirs, facilitating the virus's enzootic cycle, while humans serve as dead-end hosts [8]. The virus manifests in humans as acute encephalitis, often leading to severe neurological symptoms, including seizures, disorientation and coma [9]. Regular outbreaks in states like Assam, Manipur, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Orissa, and West Bengal underscore its public health significance, particularly in regions with high pig populations and conducive mosquito breeding environments [2,10].

JEV infections in pigs often go unnoticed due to the asymptomatic nature of the disease, though reproductive issues like abortion and stillbirths can occur in some cases [7,11]. Pigs play a pivotal role in amplifying the virus, heightening zoonotic risks, and potentially causing economic losses in the swine industry [12]. Diagnostics for JEV in pigs rely on a combination of clinical signs, serological tests like ELISA, and molecular techniques such as RT-PCR for accurate detection [13]. Notably, JEV can be classified into five genotypes (GI to GV) based on the diversity of the nucleotide sequence of the E protein gene, with most isolates in India falling under genotype GI or GIII [2,14]. This genetic diversity has significant implications for vaccine design and control strategies. Recent advancements in research, including genomic studies and surveillance systems, aim to improve disease control. ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar, has developed a Vero cell culture-based inactivated JEV vaccine for pigs and filed a patent, marking a significant advancement in JEV control [15]. Despite the introduction of the SA-14-14-2 and JENVAC vaccines for humans, gaps remain in the prevention of JEV transmission from amplifying hosts like pigs to humans. The rising incidence of Japanese encephalitis in India highlights an urgent need for targeted interventions and improved infrastructure for early detection and prevention of this important zoonotic disease in India.

2.2. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)

HEV is a significant cause of acute viral hepatitis in India, with genotype 4 being commonly associated with pigs [16]. Transmission occurs through the fecal-oral route, consumption of undercooked pork and/ or contaminated water [17]. Enhanced public awareness and improved sanitation are critical for reducing HEV’s burden. HEV is a small, non-enveloped RNA virus belonging to the family Hepeviridae, genus Orthohepevirus [18,19]. It is a leading cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide, with significant zoonotic potential. Among animals, pigs are considered the primary reservoir for zoonotic HEV, particularly genotypes HEV-3 and HEV-4, which can infect both animals and humans [20]. Transmission typically occurs via the fecal-oral route, and HEV is detectable in the feces, bile, and muscles of infected pigs [21]. Although the risk of contracting HEV from pigs is generally low, zoonotic transmission can occur through the consumption of raw or undercooked pork. Other risk factors include direct contact with infected animals or their feces, and susceptibility increases in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women [22].

Studies conducted in India highlights the prevalence and risk factors associated with HEV in swine populations. Milton et al. (2023) reported a 51% seroprevalence in backyard pigs in northeastern India, identifying the risk factors such as swill feeding, lack of disinfection, and mixed-age rearing practices [23]. Similarly, Bansal et al. (2017) recorded a 65% seroprevalence of JEV in the state of Punjab, with a higher prevalence in growing pigs (2–8 months old), suggesting age-related susceptibility [24]. Swill-fed pigs also exhibited a higher prevalence of HEV RNA, underlining the importance of feed hygiene in reducing infection rates. Arankalle et al. (2001) reported seropositivity rates ranging from 54.6% to 74.4% in pigs across various Indian states [25], while Shukla et al. (2006) identified genetic distinctions between human and swine HEV isolates, suggesting limited zoonotic transmission in endemic regions [26]. The genetic diversity of swine HEV isolates underscores the need for targeted surveillance and improved biosecurity measures to mitigate risks, especially for occupationally exposed groups such as swine farmers, slaughterhouse workers, and veterinarians.

2.3. Swine Influenza Virus (SIV)

Swine influenza A virus (SIV) is a zoonotic pathogen of significant public health importance, causing respiratory disease in pigs and posing a potential risk of cross-species transmission to humans [27]. SIV is classified into subtypes based on its surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA), with H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2 being the most commonly reported subtypes in swine populations globally [28]. In India, limited but significant studies have reported the presence of SIV in pigs, primarily associated with sporadic outbreaks of respiratory illness among swine herds [29,30]. Surveillance reports indicate varying prevalence rates depending on the region and diagnostic methods employed. Nagarajan et al. (2010) reported the detection of a novel reassortant influenza A H1N1 virus in pigs in Uttar Pradesh, India, linked to the 2009 human pandemic strain [29]. Virus isolation, RT-PCR, and genetic analysis revealed that the HA gene originated from the "North American Swine" lineage, while the NA and M genes were from the "Eurasian Swine" lineage. Other genes were also of "North American Swine" origin. This was the first report of such a reassortant in Indian pigs, emphasizing the need for ongoing surveillance. Interestingly, the virus also demonstrated the capability for human-to-human transmission without requiring pigs as intermediate hosts [31]. Senthilkumar et al. (2021) conducted a serological survey on H1N1 infection in Indian pigs between 2009 and 2016, revealing seroprevalence rates ranging from 5.2% in 2009 to 36.3% in 2011 [30]. In eastern Uttar Pradesh, antibody prevalence varied from 6.2% to 37.5%, suggesting co-circulation of seasonal and pandemic H1N1 viruses. These findings underscore the potential for spillover transmission of influenza from humans to pigs, highlighting the need for systematic molecular surveillance to monitor and mitigate pandemic risks. Pegu et al. (2017) conducted SIV seroepidemiological studies in northeastern states, reporting seropositivity rates of 7.43% in Assam (49/659), 6.25% in Nagaland (7/112), 6.94% in Arunachal Pradesh (5/72), 8.16% in Meghalaya (8/98), 7.46% in Mizoram (5/67), and 5.36% in Tripura (3/56), with an overall positivity rate of 3.94% (42/1,064 samples) [32]. These studies highlight the importance of monitoring and controlling SIV in the region. Infected pigs may exhibit symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and respiratory distress. The prevalence of SIV in Indian pigs underscores the necessity for enhanced surveillance and biosecurity measures. The zoonotic potential of SIV, coupled with its ability to reassort and generate novel strains, highlights the importance of monitoring swine populations for emerging variants.

2.4. Rotavirus (RV)

Rotavirus, a non-enveloped double-stranded RNA virus belonging to the family Reoviridae, is a leading cause of enteric diseases in neonatal and young animals, including pigs [33]. In pigs, rotavirus primarily causes diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, resulting in significant economic losses due to morbidity, mortality, and reduced growth rates [34]. Rotavirus species A, B and C (RVA, RVB, RVC) are known to infect humans and animals, while species D, E, F, and G (RVD, RVE, RVF, RVG) primarily infect animals, mostly birds [35,36]. Epidemiologically, RVA is the most critical cause of diarrhoea, with 27 G types and 35 P types identified so far [36]. RVA strains are categorized based on antigenic properties, RNA migration patterns, and nucleotide sequences [37].

Rotavirus-associated diarrhoea in piglets is a significant concern in India, with varying prevalence and notable genetic diversity observed in different regions. Malik et al. (2013) detected RV in 13.04% of diarrhoeic piglets from various regions of Madhya Pradesh, using ELISA, RNA-PAGE and RT-PCR as diagnostic tools [38]. Studies highlight the widespread nature of rotavirus infections, particularly in northeastern states such as Assam and Tripura, where prevalence rates reached up to 40.62% [39]. Barman et al. (1998, 2003) reported high positivity rates using ELISA, with 26.9% of samples testing positive for RV and the highest incidence observed in 4-week-old piglets (53.1%) [40,41]. Bora et al. (2007) isolated rotavirus from diarrhoeic piglets, showing that ELISA detected RV antigen in slightly higher numbers (29.35%) compared to PAGE (24.84%) [42]. Dubal et al. (2013) identified an infrequent strain, G4P [6], and reported 30% prevalence in the Northeastern Hills region [43]. Kattoor et al. (2018) reported emerging VP6 genotypes (I1, I5) and a positivity rate of 42.4%, with the highest detection in Uttar Pradesh [44]. Kusumakar et al. (2010) described significant genomic diversity with eight distinct electropherotypes, predominantly of the long pattern [45]. Sharma et al. (2013) detected a 46.3% prevalence of group A rotavirus, confirmed through electropherotype patterns [46]. Ahmed et al. (2017) highlighted zoonotic potential, identifying shared genotypes such as G3P [6] in piglets and humans in close contact [47]. Chakraborty et al. (2015) developed an RFLP assay to analyze 67 rotavirus isolates (29 Indian, 38 global) from humans, bovines, and porcine neonates. Using digestion of RT-PCR amplified VP7 cDNAs with VspI, HaeIII, and NlaIV, they identified 48 RFLP patterns, 20 unique to Indian isolates, revealing significant genetic variation [48]. This emphasizes the critical need to understand the genetic diversity and interspecies transmission of rotavirus in India.

3. Emerging and Sporadically Reported Zoonotic Viruses of Pigs in India

3.1. Chandipura Virus (CHPV)

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the family Rhabdoviridae and genus Vesiculovirus [49,50]. First isolated in India in 1965, CHPV has emerged as a significant neurotropic pathogen causing acute encephalitis, primarily in children [49]. Fruit bats and sandflies are well-established as reservoirs and vectors, respectively, while evidence regarding the involvement of pigs in CHPV's epidemiology remains limited. Given the zoonotic potential of vesiculoviruses, pigs have been hypothesized as possible amplifying hosts; however, their role in CHPV transmission is underexplored in India. Epidemiological studies on CHPV in pigs are scarce in India. Joshi et al. (2005) reported virus-neutralizing antibodies in 30.6% of pig sera from Karimnagar and Warangal districts of Andhra Pradesh, indicating exposure to CHPV [51]. However, retrospective studies found N-antibodies to CHPV in pigs, indicating prior exposure, although no signs of illness were observed in the animals [52]. These findings suggest that pigs may not play a significant role as reservoirs or amplifying hosts for CHPV in India. Still, the possibility of spillover events, particularly in high-density farming areas or during outbreaks involving vectors such as sandflies, cannot be ruled out. Further studies, including serological surveys and vector-host interaction research, are essential to elucidate the role of pigs in CHPV transmission dynamics. Enhanced surveillance and interdisciplinary approaches are critical for understanding and mitigating the zoonotic risks posed by CHPV to animal and human health.

3.2. Rabies Virus

Rabies virus (RABV), a neurotropic virus belonging to the family Rhabdoviridae and genus Lyssavirus, is a significant zoonotic pathogen responsible for approximately 59,000 human deaths annually worldwide, with India contributing a substantial share of this burden [53]. While domestic dogs serve as the primary reservoirs and transmitters of rabies, the virus's ability to infect other mammals, including livestock, raises concern about its occurrence in unconventional hosts such as pigs [1]. Although pigs are not recognized as primary reservoirs, they can act as incidental hosts when exposed to infected animals, particularly rabid dogs.

Reports of rabies in pigs in India are rare, reflecting the sporadic and opportunistic nature of such infections. Isolated cases have been documented in rural areas where pigs often roam freely and share habitats with rabies-endemic carnivores. For instance, Preethi et al. (2020) reported the first documented case of rabies in domestic pigs under farm conditions in South India, where three pigs from a pig farm in Kerala exhibited nervous symptoms 10 days after a stray dog attack, dying within 48 hours, with rabies confirmed in one pig through immunochromatographic assay and Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT) [54]. Similarly, Boro et al. (2023) reported rabies cases in pigs from Northeast India, emphasizing the sporadic yet notable incidence of the disease in this species [55]. Kinge and Supe (2016) conducted a study at a tertiary-care hospital in Nagpur, documenting rabies cases in humans following animal bites, with 0.6% of these cases attributed to pig bites [56]. Furthermore, Nair and Jayson (2016) reported a human-wild pig conflict in Malappuram District, Kerala, with rabies confirmed in affected areas and among victims [57]. These cases underscore the potential for rabies spillover to pigs in regions with high canine rabies prevalence. Although such occurrences are infrequent, they highlight the importance of including pigs in rabies surveillance programs. Preventive measures, such as vaccination campaigns targeting domestic dogs and educational initiatives for farmers are crucial to minimize livestock exposure to rabid animals and controlling the risk of rabies transmission in unconventional hosts like pigs.

3.3. Pseudorabies or ADV (SuHV-1)

Pseudorabies virus (PRV), also known as Aujeszky’s disease virus (ADV), is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the family Herpesviridae and subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae [58]. It is a highly contagious pathogen primarily affecting pigs, its natural host, and causing respiratory, neurological, and reproductive disorders [59]. PRV also has a broad host range, with secondary hosts such as cattle, dogs and cats often succumbing to fatal infections [60]. While pseudorabies has been eradicated in several developed countries through rigorous vaccination and control measures, its presence in India remains a concern due to sporadic reports of infection in swine populations. Studies on PRV prevalence in Indian pigs have underscored the necessity for enhanced surveillance and diagnostic measures. Molecular epidemiological investigations conducted by Vanamayya et al. (2009), aimed to optimize a SYBR Green-based real-time PCR assay for PRV detection in the Indian pig population [61]. A total of 1,050 DNA samples from tissues of native Indian pigs and 80 nasal swabs from animals exhibiting respiratory illness were screened using both conventional PCR and an in-house validated SYBR Green real-time PCR assay. Notably, none of the samples tested positive for PRV. The status of pseudorabies prevalence in India remains unclear, with limited data available. Apart from the study by Bhattacharya et al. (1974), which involved virus isolation from swine, there is a lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies [62]. Previous research by Vanamayya (2002) recorded a seropositivity rate of approximately 21% in native pigs reared under backyard system of management, while no seropositivity was detected in exotic breeds of farm-reared swine [61,63]. Although large-scale outbreaks have not been reported in India, the latent nature of PRV and its potential for reactivation under stress conditions pose a significant threat to swine health and productivity in India.

3.4. Porcine Astrovirus (PAstV)

Porcine astrovirus (PAstV) is a non-enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the family Astroviridae [64]. It is a common enteric virus in pigs, typically associated with subclinical infections or mild diarrhoea. PAstV is genetically diverse, with multiple species (PAstV1–PAstV5) identified globally [65]. Although often considered a low-impact pathogen, emerging evidence suggests its potential association with neurological disorders in pigs, raising concerns about its broader implications for swine health. In India, research on PAstV prevalence in pigs is limited but gradually gaining attention. Recent studies employing molecular diagnostics such as RT-PCR have detected PAstV in fecal samples from swine populations in regions with intensive pig farming. The prevalence and genetic diversity of porcine astrovirus (PAstV) in India have been highlighted in several recent studies, revealing significant heterogeneity and regional variability. Sawant et al. (2023) detected PAstV in 12.5% of fecal samples from piglets in Western Maharashtra, identifying strains belonging to MAstV-24, MAstV-26, and MAstV-31 [66]. This aligns with earlier findings by Kattoor et al. (2019), who first reported PAstV prevalence in India, detecting the virus in 17.6% of diarrhoeic piglets and highlighting co-infections with porcine rotavirus A [67]. Their phylogenetic analysis revealed lineages 2 and 4, with lineage 4 exhibiting significant genetic variability. Subsequent studies, such as those by Kour et al. (2021) and Kaur et al. (2023), have corroborated the circulation of diverse PAstV genotypes, particularly PAstV1, PAstV2, PAstV4, and PAstV5, in Haryana, with prevalence rates ranging from 16.47% to 50% across various age groups [68,69]. Vaishali et al. (2023) further emphasized the high detection rate of PAstV (50%) in pigs, particularly in those aged 3–6 weeks, and identified the circulation of lineages 2 and 4 [70]. Collectively, these studies underscore the endemic presence of PAstV across different regions of India, with a notable genetic diversity that necessitates further investigation into its epidemiology, clinical significance, and potential impact on porcine health management. Porcine astrovirus (PoAstV) is a pathogen with potential zoonotic implications; its genetic diversity and potential for recombination necessitate further investigation to assess interspecies transmission risks [71].

3.5. Torque Teno Sus Virus (TTSuV)

Torque teno sus virus (TTSuV) is a small, non-enveloped, single-stranded circular DNA virus classified within the Anelloviridae family [72]. It is widely recognized as a ubiquitous virus in swine populations and is categorized into two main species, TTSuV1 and TTSuV2 [73]. Although TTSuV itself is not directly associated with clinical disease, it is often implicated as a co-factor in porcine circovirus-associated diseases (PCVAD), where its high viral load may exacerbate clinical outcomes. The virus is transmitted through both vertical and horizontal routes, and its widespread prevalence in pigs has made it a significant subject of study in veterinary virology. In India, reports on TTSuV prevalence in pigs are limited but provide valuable insights. Subramanyam et al. (2019) reported the first detection of Torque teno sus viruses (TTSuVs) in India, identifying both Iotatorquevirus and Kappatorquevirus genera in 110 of 416 pig samples collected between 2014 and 2018 [74]. Using PCR and DNA sequencing, the study highlighted the circulation of these viruses across 12 Indian states, raising concerns about their potential to cross the species barrier and their relevance particularly in the high pork consumption North-Eastern states of India.

4. Other Emerging Viruses Not Reported in Pigs in India but Circulating in Neighbouring Countries

Viruses such as Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus (SADS-CoV), SARS-CoV-2, and Nipah virus (NiV) underscore the increasing need to monitor pigs as reservoirs for pandemic-prone pathogens.

4.1. Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus (SADS-CoV) and SARS-CoV-2

Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus (SADS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are both members of the Coronaviridae family, with zoonotic origins and significant implications for animal and human health [75]. Swine coronaviruses are categorized into different genera, with Alphacoronavirus including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine respiratory coronavirus (PRCV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), and swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV); Betacoronavirus represented by porcine hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus (PHEV); and Deltacoronavirus comprising porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) [76]. PHEV, one of the earliest swine coronaviruses to be identified, remains prevalent and generally causes asymptomatic infections in pigs worldwide. TGEV, PEDV, and PDCoV are enteropathogenic viruses that result in acute gastroenteritis with similar clinical presentations in pigs of all ages, while recently emerging coronaviruses, such as PDCoV and SADS-CoV, were reported in 2014 in the United States and 2017 in China, respectively [76]. It causes severe diarrhoea and high mortality in neonatal pigs, posing a threat to global swine industries. On the other hand, SARS-CoV-2, a beta-coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has demonstrated a broad host range, raising concerns about reverse zoonosis in animal populations, including pigs.

In the Indian context, to date, there have been no confirmed reports of SADS-CoV in Indian pigs, indicating its absence or no prevalence in the country. However, given India's extensive pig farming and proximity to bat habitats, there is a need for proactive surveillance to detect potential spillovers. Regarding SARS-CoV-2, studies during the COVID-19 pandemic investigated the possibility of reverse zoonosis in pigs. Testing of swine populations for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibodies has yielded negative results, suggesting that pigs are not significantly involved in the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in India. Despite the absence of evidence for widespread infection, India's dense livestock populations, coupled with human-animal interface dynamics, necessitate vigilance. Continuous monitoring for coronaviruses in pigs, especially in regions with high bat activity or human-pig interactions, is crucial for early detection and containment.

4.2. Nipah Virus (NiV)

Nipah virus (NiV) is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus classified within the family Paramyxoviridae and genus Henipavirus [77]. It is a highly pathogenic zoonotic virus responsible for severe respiratory and neurological diseases in humans and animals. Fruit bats of the Pteropus genus are recognized as the primary natural reservoirs of NiV [77]. Transmission to humans can occur through contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated food, or direct person-to-person transmission [78].

In India, NiV outbreaks have predominantly been linked to human-to-human transmission and exposure to infected fruit bats rather than pigs. The first recorded outbreak occurred in 2001 in Siliguri, West Bengal, followed by a second outbreak in 2007 in Nadia district, West Bengal [79]. Both outbreaks were marked by high fatality rates and evidence of person-to-person transmission. More recent outbreaks in Kerala in 2018, 2019, and 2021 highlighted similar patterns [79]. The 2018 outbreak in Kozhikode district resulted in 17 fatalities out of 18 confirmed cases, with investigations tracing the source of infection to fruit bats contaminating date palm sap or fruits consumed by humans [80,81]. NiV is transmitted through multiple routes, including the consumption of raw date palm sap contaminated by bat saliva, urine, or feces, close contact with infected animals such as bats or pigs, and caregiving for infected individuals. Despite pigs being a documented amplifying host in outbreaks in Malaysia and Singapore, evidence from India does not support their role as a significant reservoir for NiV.

Recent studies have further reinforced the absence of Nipah virus among the pig population in India. A comprehensive study conducted in Mizoram tested over 1,100 serum samples from healthy pigs, finding no anti-NiV IgG antibodies. Additionally, 1,512 serum samples collected from pigs across various Indian states between 2009 and 2012 were negative for NiV in both western blot and indirect ELISA assays [82]. These findings suggest that pigs are not a major reservoir for NiV in the country, and no clinical cases in pigs have been documented during these periods. The genetic diversity of NiV strains circulating in India, as identified through molecular studies, indicates similarities to strains in Bangladesh but with unique regional variations. This highlights the importance of genomic surveillance to monitor potential mutations and predict outbreak patterns.

5. Conclusion

The present review highlights the significant zoonotic risks posed by viral diseases in pigs in India, emphasizing the intricate interplay of epidemiology, genetic diversity, and public health concerns. Diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), Hepatitis E Virus (HEV), and Swine Influenza Virus (SIV) underscore the critical role of pigs as reservoirs and amplifying hosts, necessitating robust surveillance systems and targeted interventions. The emergence of viruses like Porcine Astrovirus (PAstV) and the detection of Torque teno sus virus (TTSuV) further underline the need for comprehensive biosecurity measures to mitigate risks, especially for occupationally exposed groups. The sporadic detection of Chandipura virus (CHPV) and rabies in pigs highlights potential spillover risks in specific regions, while limited data on pseudorabies and other emerging viruses call for intensified research and monitoring. Although no direct evidence links pigs in India to significant outbreaks of Nipah virus (NiV), Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus (SADS-CoV), or SARS-CoV-2, the proximity of pig farming to bat habitats necessitates proactive surveillance to prevent potential spillovers. Understanding the genetic diversity and zoonotic potential of pig-associated viruses is crucial for developing effective vaccines, diagnostic tools, and control strategies.