IDT Biologika and Hysolv Animal Health have announced the publication of A guide to oedema disease in pigs, a six-page booklet written to help pig producers understand the causes, effects and treatment of this ailment.

Author, F Javier Salquero, an independent European veterinary specialist in porcine health management, outlines the risk factors, how to identify oedema disease, current methods of treatment and prevention strategies. The booklet includes a table of the symptoms to be expected in new-born, suckling, post-weaned, grower-finishers and adult pigs.

The booklet concludes that treatment of oedema disease is generally unsuccessful and most pigs showing clinical signs die. However, preventive measures include adjustment of feeding regimes, stress reduction, improved biosecurity and vaccination.

Hysolv director, Richard Brealey said: "Oedema is a widespread, lethal and economically-important disease in pigs, and there is increasing pressure in Europe to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock.  Fully understanding this disease is a first step to control and prevention".

Hysolv says a German calculation showed a reduction in margin of 83 Euros (£74) per sow, equivalent to 41,000 Euros (£32,500) for a 500-sow herd, due to oedema. 

The booklet — printed on heavy duty glossy card – suitable for use in piggeries — is available, free, by visiting the Hysolv website: www.hysolv.co.uk  

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