Success story: vaccinations in pigs
In the past, animal owners and veterinarians were helpless to deal with many infectious diseases, but today effective medications and vaccinations are almost a given - even for pigs. Regardless of whether it is the respiratory tract, digestive tract or fertility: bacteria and viruses are adaptable – and treacherous. An infection can result in serious illness or even be life-threatening. In addition to the welfare of the animals, the farmer also has to deal with the economic losses. Thanks to good health management and the proactive use of available vaccinations, many infections have lost their fear - and have been doing so for decades. Diseases such as classical swine fever and Aujeszky's disease, which were still widespread in the 90s, were eradicated in Germany thanks to vaccination.
Strong history
Enzootic pneumonia, an infection of the lungs caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, or porcine proliferative enteropathy (ileitis), a widespread intestinal disease, caused and continue to cause massive losses worldwide. Where for a long time prevention could only be achieved through biosecurity and hygiene measures, effective vaccines are now available to farmers. Illnesses are prevented and medication for treatment can be saved. Ultimately, this also helps reduce resistance by reducing the use of antibiotics.
Challenges in view
New and old pathogens are keeping the industry on tenterhooks and new medical findings are changing the way we look at disease management. The intestine and the intestinal microbiome have become the focus of research. Its role in a good immune system is becoming increasingly important. In addition to the ileitis mentioned above, today there are also clostridia and toxin-producing E. coli strains against which effective vaccinations, including mother animal vaccinations, can protect.
Healthy respiratory system
Influenza diseases are also among the feared enemies in the stable. Serious illnesses can occur, especially in the transitional periods and the cold season. Pandemic influenza, on the other hand, often has an inconspicuous course and is independent of the season. It weakens the animals and increases the risk of additional illnesses. Effective control of influenza infections is also important because pigs are susceptible to different subtypes of the virus and can therefore play a role in the emergence of new virus variants. Since both humans and pigs can become infected with influenza A viruses, prevention is doubly important here.
Protect fertility
The fact that approximately a third of fertility problems in pigs are due to infection shows that this area needed urgent attention. Vaccines against erysipelas and parvovirus were available early on. Porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome (PRRS) and infections caused by porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV 2) also play a major role, as do bacterial infections caused by leptospira or chlamydia. Thanks to intensive research, combination vaccines against parvovirus and erysipelas as well as leptospirosis are now standard for farmers.
Combinations in trend
Overall, in recent years there has been increased research into new application options and combination vaccines or combinable components. The goals are to improve immunity, gentle administration, but also good work efficiency for farmers.
Briefly:
- The veterinary pharmaceutical industry has achieved great success in disease prevention over the past decades
- Many diseases affecting pigs can be combated thanks to innovative vaccinations
- Vigilance remains the top priority when dealing with illness
The Federal Association for Animal Health (BfT) represents the leading manufacturers of veterinary drugs, veterinary technology products, diagnostics and, where processed, digital monitoring applications, medicated feed, feed additives and supplementary feed in Germany. The member companies are active in the development, manufacture and marketing of these products and represent more than 95% of the German market. The association is officially registered as an interest group in Germany and the EU.
