Preventing pig diseases is one of the most important parts of running a healthy and productive farm. Understanding common pig diseases and how to manage them helps you protect your livestock and reduce losses. Below is a guide to the most common pig diseases and practical prevention strategies.

1. Swine Dysentery

Swine dysentery is caused by a bacterial infection that affects the large intestine. It leads to diarrhea, reduced appetite, and weight loss in pigs. Young pigs are particularly vulnerable to this disease.

Symptoms:

• Watery or bloody diarrhea
• Weakness and reduced growth rate
• Dehydration

Prevention:

• Maintain strict hygiene in pig pens.
• Use clean water sources and avoid contamination.
• Quarantine new pigs before introducing them to the herd.
• Administer appropriate antibiotics under veterinary supervision [TO BE VERIFIED].

2. Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)

PRRS affects the respiratory and reproductive systems of pigs. It spreads through direct contact and contaminated equipment.

Symptoms:

• Breathing difficulties in young pigs
• Reduced fertility or miscarriages in sows
• Weak piglets at birth

Prevention:

• Vaccinate your herd against PRRS.
• Disinfect equipment and pens regularly.
• Limit visitors to the farm to reduce exposure.

3. Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease. It affects pigs’ mouths and hooves, causing pain and reduced productivity.

Symptoms:

• Blisters around the mouth, hooves, and teats
• Lameness and reluctance to move
• Fever and reduced appetite

Prevention:

• Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent exposure.
• Report any suspected cases immediately to local authorities.
• Vaccinate as per local regulations [TO BE VERIFIED].

4. African Swine Fever (ASF)

ASF is a severe viral disease with no known cure or vaccine. It can lead to high mortality rates.

Symptoms:

• High fever and loss of appetite
• Skin discoloration and vomiting
• Sudden death in severe cases

Prevention:

• Avoid feeding pigs with food waste containing meat products.
• Quarantine infected pigs to prevent spread.
• Strengthen biosecurity measures and disinfect pens frequently.

5. E. coli Diarrhea

E. coli diarrhea is a bacterial infection commonly seen in piglets. It causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.

Symptoms:

• Watery, yellowish diarrhea
• Weakness and weight loss
• Dehydration leading to sunken eyes

Prevention:

• Ensure piglets receive adequate colostrum after birth.
• Keep farrowing areas clean and sanitized.
• Provide clean, fresh water and monitor piglets closely.

6. Mange

Mange is a skin disease caused by mites that burrow into the pig’s skin. It leads to itching, hair loss, and discomfort.

Symptoms:

• Intense scratching and rubbing
• Hair loss and thickened skin
• Visible mites in severe cases

Prevention:

• Treat pigs with anti-parasitic medications regularly.
• Clean and disinfect pig pens to eliminate mites.
• Inspect new pigs for mange before adding them to the herd.

7. Mycoplasma Pneumonia

This respiratory disease is caused by a bacterial infection. It spreads through direct contact and contaminated air.

Symptoms:

• Persistent coughing
• Reduced feed intake and growth
• Labored breathing

Prevention:

• Vaccinate pigs against Mycoplasma pneumonia.
• Maintain good ventilation in pig housing.
• Minimize overcrowding to reduce stress.

General Prevention Tips

• Cleanliness: Regular cleaning of pens and equipment reduces the risk of infections.
• Quarantine: Always isolate new or sick pigs to prevent disease spread.
• Vaccinations: Follow a vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
• Nutrition: Provide balanced diets to strengthen pigs’ immune systems.
• Biosecurity: Limit access to your farm and disinfect footwear and tools.

Staying proactive with these measures helps you maintain a healthy herd. Address any signs of illness promptly to minimize impact on your farm.