Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo) remains one of the most prevalent and economically significant respiratory pathogens in the swine industry. Economic losses related to M. hyo are associated with decreased feed efficiency, reduced average daily gain, and increased medication costs. Learn about current protocols with emphasis on herd closure and medication in this peer-reviewed paper.
Source: Journal of Swine Health and Production, November and December 2015.
Implications: 1) M hyopneumoniae is a significant cause of economic loss to swine producers, and successful elimination from a production system can result in improved animal welfare, increased production, decreased production costs, and reduced antimicrobial usage. 2) The multitude of elimination protocols that have been described and successfully executed can be tailored to fit the unique aspects associated with a particular farm or system and their goals. 3) Increased focus and effort on the development of novel disease elimination techniques and strategies will be vital to combat health challenges in the future.
INSIGHTS: Those calling on swine producers directly on farm could find value in refreshing their knowledge about specific-pathogen-free (SPF) technique and methods for eliminating M. hyo. While heavy reading, industry professionals focused on swine health can appreciate the information referenced in this paper.