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Protect your pigs from Exudative Epidermitis
Exudative epidermitis, also known as "greasy pig disease", is a bacterial skin infection that primarily affects piglets. Caused by Staphylococcus hyicus, it leads to greasy, dark lesions on the skin and can result in dehydration, reduced growth and, in severe cases, death. The disease is highly contagious and thrives in farrowing environments with poor hygiene and high bacterial pressure.
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Causes of exudative epidermitis
The main cause is infection with Staphylococcus hyicus. The bacteria enter the body through small skin lesions, often resulting from:
- Rough handling or sharp teeth/claws of piglets
- Fighting between littermates
- Environmental abrasions or poor hygiene
- Inadequate skin protection at birth
Sows can be asymptomatic carriers and transmit the bacteria to their offspring.
How does it spread?
Exudative epidermitis spreads rapidly within litters and between piglets via direct skin-to-skin contact, especially in crowded conditions. The primary transmission route is through contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces such as floors, walls, feeders, or equipment. Piglets with skin abrasions are particularly vulnerable, as the bacteria can easily enter through these small wounds.
High humidity, insufficient drying at birth, and poor environmental hygiene accelerate the spread of the disease. In farrowing environments with high bacterial pressure, the infection can escalate quickly and affect an entire batch of piglets in a matter of days.
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Recognising the symptoms
Symptoms of exudative epidermitis vary in severity:
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- Foul-smelling skin discharge
- Reduced feed intake and growth
- Lethargy and dehydration
- Greasy, dark-brown to black skin lesions
- Skin thickening and crust formation
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How to prevent exudative epidermitis
Preventing exudative epidermitis requires a strategic focus on hygiene, early care, and minimizing skin damage in piglets. Because the bacteria responsible for this disease are often already present in the farrowing unit, prevention revolves around limiting the opportunities for infection to develop and spread.
To effectively reduce the bacterial load in the farrowing pens, we recommend disinfecting all surfaces with proven products such as MS MegaDes Novo. This powerful broad-spectrum disinfectant is proven to eliminate many harmful bacteria, helping you start each batch in a cleaner, safer environment.
The 5 steps to prevent Exudative Epidermitis
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Clean and disinfect the farrowing pens before every batch
A hygienic farrowing environment significantly reduces the bacterial load. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces, including floors, walls, crates, feeders, and heating lamps, before introducing a new sow and her litter. Pay special attention to corners and porous materials that can harbor Staphylococcus hyicus. Use a broad-spectrum disinfectant proven to be effective against Gram-positive bacteria.:format(webp))
Ensure dry and warm conditions at birth
Wet piglets are more susceptible to hypothermia and skin damage, which increases the risk of infection. Provide a clean, dry surface and sufficient heating during and after farrowing. Use drying powders or towels immediately after birth to remove moisture from the piglets' skin. A warm, dry start sets piglets up for better development and improved natural defenses.:format(webp))
Protect the skin from scratches and wounds
Minimize sources of skin damage, which serve as entry points for the bacteria. This includes managing sharp edges on equipment and maintaining smooth flooring. Avoid overcrowding and ensure piglets are not forced to compete aggressively for teats or space.:format(webp))
Improve piglet vitality and immune protection
Piglets that are robust and have received adequate colostrum have stronger immunity and are less likely to develop infections. Support vitality with good sow nutrition during gestation and farrowing, and provide supplemental colostrum or energy sources to weaker piglets if necessary. The healthier the piglet, the better its skin barrier and immune response.:format(webp))
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