There has been a positive case of Swine Dysentery (Brachyspira hyodysenteriae) reported to the Scottish Pig Disease Control Centre (SPDCC), the farm is in the Southwest region of Scotland.
In order to protect herd health pig producers should pay particular attention to biosecurity in the following areas as these areas are high risk for Swine Dysentery entry to a unit.
Infected pigs, their dung and anything contaminated with dung (vehicles, boots, slurry, and equipment) can easily spread infection between farms. It only requires small amounts of infected faeces to spread this disease.
- Vehicles – Make sure all vehicles visiting the farm are clean. Hauliers of livestock/deadstock should not enter the unit perimeter. Farm staff and the lorry driver should not go past a certain distinct point on the loading bay, this point should be separated by a gate. The loading bay should preferably be sited on the perimeter of the unit and keep out signs should be located at the entry of the loading bay.
- Visitors – Farm should provide clean boots and overalls for visitors.
- Other animals – Be aware that birds, rodents and other wild animals may carry Swine Dysentery.
- Incoming breeding stock or weaners – Request health information of the source farm.
Swine Dysentery (Brachyspira hyodysenteriae) can be one of the most economically damaging disease’s a farm can experience with estimated losses of £10.00 per pig due to increases in mortality, poor growth and poor feed efficiency.
If you have any questions, please contact Quality Meat Scotland. Website:www.qmscotland.co.uk