“The disease spreads rapidly, particularly in the current cold weather conditions,“ warns BPEX Veterinary Projects Manager, Helen Clarke.

She said, as a highly economically damaging infection, it is imperative any suspected symptoms are reported as soon as possible. “Swine dysentery causes a rapid loss of condition in affected pigs and, eventually, loss of stock. Clinical signs affecting growing and finishing pigs include bloody diarrhoea but, for outdoor breeding units, clinical signs may not be evident at all.“

She recommended all producers tighten up on biosecurity measures. Helen said: “The bacterium Brachyspira hyodysenteriae live in the large intestine and are passed out in dung. This is why it is so easily spread on boots, vehicles and implements, as well as by rodents and birds, and why hygiene is so important.“