Alyssa Betlach -DVM, veterinarian with Swine Vet Center and graduate student at the University of Minnesota- talks in Pig Health Today® about differences in the ability to detect Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae based on sample types.
Highlights
- Transmission of M. hyopneumoniae is very slow compared to other pathogens. Gilts and sows have a critical role in the transmission of M. hyopneumoniae.
- Accurate gilt surveillance is key in those sow herds seeking negative M. hyopneumoniae status.
- To detect M. hyopneumoniae, the laryngeal swabs and deep tracheal catheters are more accurate than other sample types during the early stage of infection.
Sow herds seeking negative Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae status should use accurate gilt surveillance methods. Maintaining a negative health status for M. hyopneumoniae in the sow herd is important for reducing the economic toll that this pathogen has on hog production.
Research conducted by Alyssa Betlach, DVM, veterinarian with Swine Vet Center and graduate student at the University of Minnesota, showed differences in the ability to detect a recent M. hyopneumoniae infection based on sample types used.
“If we really want to increase our ability to track M. hyopneumoniae, we need to have a different mindset and focus on sample types that are more sensitive for detecting such pathogens”
Alyssa Betlach
Listen to Alyssa Betlach’s full interview in Pig Health Today®