A diagnostic test for the pig disease oedema is being offered free to UK farmers by Hysolv Animal Health, which say the “lethal” infection, primarily found among young piglets, can be confused with other clinical signs.
The test, known as STEC-Check, is designed to pinpoint oedema by enabling vets to identify the E coli sub-types producing Shiga toxin, which is associated with the disease.
“Oedema disease is not always obvious and may be masked or controlled by the use of antibiotics, the use of zinc oxide or low-protein feeds, which can also negatively affect productivity,” said Hysolv’s Richard Brealey, adding that the company was advising farmers to contact their vets to discuss using STEC-check.
He also said that a nationwide study in Germany showed that 59% of farms, where oedema was suspected, were found to be affected by Shiga toxin.