8.1.5 What are the take home messages from the European efficacy trials?

1. On all farms, pigs vaccinated with Enterisol® Ileitis, grew faster between weaning and slaughter, and achieved higher and less variable end weights than non-vaccinated controls. The average increase in ADWG in the nursery units of the described and other recently conducted trials in Europe is 63 grams, with a range from 33 to 125 gram. See Figure 8.1.5 a. The average increase in ADWG in the finishing units of the described and other recently conducted trials in Europe is 41 gram. See Figure 8.1.5 b.

2. The higher end weight and the reduced variation (lower number of lightweight pigs, less pigs outside the optimal weight window in the carcase grading grid) contributed to higher gross margin of approximately € + 5 per vaccinated pig compared to non-vaccinated controls. The return of investment is on average 3 : 1.

In conclusion, oral vaccination against Lawsonia intracellularis is an economically efficient tool to control intestinal diseases related to this organism and to permit a better exploitation of the genetic growth potential of the pig.

Figure 8.1.5 a
Difference between Average Daily Weight Gain in groups of vaccinated and non-vaccinated animals.

Figure 8.1.5 b
Difference between Average Daily Weight Gain in groups of vaccinated and non-vaccinated animals.