MSD Animal Health is asking UK pig producers to complete a survey on their experiences and knowledge of the common on-farm disease ileitis, so the firm can support farmers in combatting it.
Sam Carmichael
MSD Animal Health want to gain a better understanding of ileitis and its symptoms, to ensure that producers are able to follow the correct prevention methods for the disease; ileitis is currently controlled with a vaccine and good on-farm biosecurity, and is caused by the Lawsonia intracellularis bacteria.
Sam Carmichael, veterinary key account manager for pigs at MSD Animal Health UK, said: “With Lawsonia intracellularis being present on up to 100% of UK pig farms, and the symptoms of ileitis not being specific to the disease, producers aren’t always aware they have ileitis on farm. Therefore, pigs often go untreated, or inappropriate treatment is administered.”
Mrs Carmichael adds that, with the disease awareness survey, MSD Animal Health hopes to gain a clearer picture of the level of disease awareness among UK pig producers – to highlight any areas where further support and education may be required.
Producers who complete the short survey will also be entered into a prize draw, where they can win an MSD Animal Health UK branded clothing bundle.
“From the findings of this survey, we hope to be able to offer ways to better support the industry in raising awareness of ileitis. We want to help producers to spot the symptoms and understand the importance behind strict biosecurity measures and robust vaccination programmes,” said Mrs Carmichael.
To complete the survey and enter into the prize draw, go to: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GFKLLBZ.
