Effective solutions for identification – prevention – control in livestock production
In modern pig farming, maintaining a healthy herd is the key factor determining production efficiency and long-term profitability. To achieve this, farmers and technical staff need to understand common diseases, recognize symptoms early, and have timely, accurate treatment protocols.
In reality, prevention is always more effective and cost-efficient than treatment. A well-structured herd health management program will help minimize disease risks, stabilize productivity, and ensure biosecurity for the farm.
Below are the 6 most common diseases in pigs, often seen in the following stages: pre-weaning – post-weaning – reproduction, which farmers should pay special attention to.
I. PRE-WEANING STAGE
1. Exudative dermatitis (Greasy Pig Disease)
This is a common disease in piglets, caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus hyicus. In severe cases, the bacteria can damage the liver and kidneys and lead to death.
Signs to recognize:
- Dark skin patches appear and spread
- Skin peeling with greasy discharge
- Piglets are weak and grow slowly
Control measures:
- Treat with antibiotics combined with skin-protective medication
- Autogenous vaccines may be used in some cases
- Improve pen hygiene, disinfect sow teats before and after farrowing
- Reduce skin abrasions (rough flooring, sharp teeth, sharp objects, mites, etc.)
2. Coccidiosis
Coccidiosis commonly occurs in suckling piglets, caused by the intracellular parasite coccidia, and is common in pigs aged 10–21 days.
Common symptoms:
- Prolonged diarrhea
- Stool may contain blood
- Piglets grow slowly and become dehydrated
Prevention and treatment:
- Treat with anticoccidial drugs and electrolyte rehydration
- Preventive treatment for sows if the disease occurs frequently on the farm
- Keep pens dry and warm
- Control manure and flies – the main sources of infection
II. POST-WEANING STAGE
3. Respiratory diseases
Respiratory diseases are a group of diseases that cause major losses in growth and survival rates in post-weaning pigs.
Typical signs:
- Coughing, sneezing, abdominal breathing
- Reduced weight gain
- Increased mortality
Common causes:
- Bacteria Streptococcus suis, Pasteurella
- PRRS virus
- Poorly ventilated housing, high ammonia levels
Control approach:
- Treat with appropriate antibiotics (via feed, drinking water, or injection)
- Vaccinate against the strains circulating on the farm
- Reduce stocking density and improve ventilation
- Control air pollution in the barn
4. Swine dysentery
This disease is caused by the bacterium Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and spreads strongly through mixing herds and poor sanitation.
Symptoms:
- Diarrhea, with or without blood
- Reduced growth
- May cause sudden death
Prevention and treatment measures:
- Use antibiotics as directed by a veterinarian
- Reduce stocking density and limit stress
- Control rats – the disease vector
- Strictly manage incoming breeding stock
III. REPRODUCTIVE DISEASES
5. Mastitis in sows
Mastitis directly affects milk production and piglet survival rates.
Common signs:
- Reduced milk production
- Fever, loss of appetite
- Swollen, discolored mammary glands
Treatment and prevention solutions:
- Antibiotics combined with anti-inflammatory drugs
- Oxytocin may be used to stimulate milk let-down
- Ensure barn hygiene and proper late-gestation nutrition
- Limit stress and teat injuries
6. Porcine parvovirus (PPV)
PPV is a common cause of reproductive disorders, especially in gilts.
Common consequences:
- Mummified fetuses, stillbirths
- Reduced litter size
- Long-term impact on reproductive performance
Important note:
- The virus can survive for a long time in the environment
- There is no specific treatment
👉 The most effective solution: regular vaccination of sows and strict biosecurity management.
CONCLUSION
At any stage, hygiene – ventilation – reduced stress – optimal nutrition are always the foundation of disease prevention. Building a well-structured herd health care plan, combined with strict biosecurity and well-quarantined breeding stock, will help farmers:
- Minimize disease risks
- Optimize treatment costs
- Improve farm efficiency and sustainability
👉 In addition to the 6 common diseases mentioned above, farmers should regularly update their knowledge and work with veterinarians to control diseases specific to each region.
Reference: Wattagnet
Edited by: Acare Team
