Swine Health Alert: Possible Increase in Erysipelas Cases

March 7, 2012 — 

During the February National Pork Board/AASV Sentinel Veterinary Clinic call, several Midwestern veterinarians reported an increase in clinical observations of Erysipelas in both finished and slaughtered hogs. As a result of this finding, additional discussions were held with USDA APHIS-Veterinary Services regarding available information about slaughter condemnations. For the first two months of 2012, multiple Midwestern slaughter facilities also recorded an increase in condemnations from suspect Erysipelas carcasses. Monitoring for unusual increases in slaughter condemnations is ongoing and further information on Erysipelas condemns will be evaluated.

In 1999-2000, a dramatic increase in clinical cases of Erysipelas on-farm and in the plant occurred. Early indications that a larger outbreak could occur presented as an increase in the levels of condemnations at slaughter. For 2012, with initial information from Sentinel Clinic veterinarians and slaughter data indicating that Erysipelas activity may be increasing, producers and their veterinarians should be aware of this concern and take appropriate actions for the treatment and prevention of Erysipelas in their herds. Vaccination of replacement gilts, adult animals and finish hogs can aid in the prevention of Erysipelas lesions and losses.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Lisa Becton (lbecton@pork.org) at the National Pork Board.