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Preventing streptococcal infections in pigs
Streptococcal infections are among the most common health challenges in pig production. They occur most often in sow herds and young pigs, especially during farrowing, weaning, and the nursery phase.
The bacterium Streptococcus suis is naturally present in the pig’s environment and in the upper respiratory tract of healthy animals. It becomes a serious threat when it gains access to the bloodstream through wounds, stress, or a weakened immune system.
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What causes streptococci in pigs?
Streptococci are bacteria that can cause serious disease in pigs. They are naturally present in the mucous membranes of healthy animals, but under certain conditions, such as stress, injury, or a weakened immune system, they can multiply and invade the body, leading to infection.
Prevent streptococcal infections in your herd!
How do pigs become infected with streptococci?
Streptococcal infections can occur at different stages of production:
- Early infection (suckling piglets): Young piglets are often infected through small wounds, such as the navel, typically during or shortly after farrowing.
- Infection during nursery and grow-finish: Pigs with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to infection. When pigs become infected later in life, the disease often develops more severely and can become fatal.
- Secondary infection: Streptococci can also act as secondary pathogens. For example, pigs already affected by viral diseases such as PRRS are much more vulnerable, allowing streptococcal infections to take hold and cause additional health problems.
Prevent streptococcal infections in your herd!
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How can I recognize a streptococcal infection in my pigs?
Pigs affected by streptococcal infections can show a wide range of symptoms (1–5). In more severe cases, the bacteria can spread from the ear to the brain, leading to meningitis. When this happens, pigs may show neurological signs that point to this (6-8).
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- Fever
- Change in general condition
- Rough and unkempt hair
- Swollen joints
- Lameness
- Head tilt
- Eye rolling
- Lying on the side ('paddling' in the final stage)
How can a streptococcal infection be prevented?
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Hygiene in the farrowing pen
When it comes to streptococcal infections, good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of disease. Before a sow is moved into the farrowing pen, the entire area should be thoroughly cleaned and properly disinfected to limit the presence of harmful bacteria.:format(webp))
Washing sows before farrowing
Before moving sows into the farrowing pen, they should be thoroughly washed. Dirt, manure, and parasites on the sow’s skin can carry harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus suis, increasing the risk of infection for newborn piglets.:format(webp))
Pay attention to hygiene at birth
Farrowing should be closely monitored and the umbilical cord disinfected right after birth. Piglets are most at risk when bacteria enter through small wounds, so procedures like tail docking, castration, and vaccination must be done with clean, disinfected equipment. Hygiene powders help keep the farrowing pen dry and limit bacterial growth. With the added disinfection provided by MS DryCare Plus, infection pressure is further reduced.:format(webp))
Supporting pig health with organic acids
Organic acids, including butyric acid and essential oils, help control harmful bacteria in the digestive tract and are especially effective against Gram-positive bacteria such as Streptococcus suis. By lowering gut pH, they limit bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infection in the herd. MS Prestige, Schippers’ organic acid blend, supports gut health and strengthens natural defenses, helping reduce streptococcal pressure and keep pigs healthier.Frequently asked questions about streptococci in pigs
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