IDT Biologika and Hysolv Animal Health have collaborated in producing a well-researched and handy six-page booklet — A guide to oedema disease in pigs — to help pig producers understand the causes, effects and treatment of this ailment.
Author, F Javier Salquero, an independent European veterinary specialist in porcine health management, outlines the risk factors, how to identify oedema disease, current methods of treatment and prevention strategies. A helpful table shows, in see-at-a-glance form, the symptoms to be expected in new-born, suckling, post-weaned, grower-finishers and adult pigs.
It concludes that treatment of oedema disease is generally unsuccessful and most pigs showing clinical signs die. However, preventive measures include adjustment of feeding regimes, stress reduction, improved biosecurity and vaccination.
“Oedema is a widespread, lethal and economically-important disease in pigs, and there is increasing pressure in Europe to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock. Fully understanding this disease is a first step to control and prevention,” commented Hysolv director, Richard Brealey.
A German calculation showed a reduction in margin of 83 Euros (£74) per sow, equivalent to 41,000 Euros (£32,500) for a 500-sow herd, due to oedema.
The booklet — printed on heavy duty glossy card – suitable for use in piggeries — is available, free, by visiting the Hysolv website: www.hysolv.co.uk
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