129: Pork: Why is swine dysentery becoming more of a concern?

In this episode, we hear about swine dysentery from Lauren Dimmack, one of our Health and Welfare Scientists. We also find out how coronavirus is impacting pork markets. In 2019 we saw a spike in cases of swine dysentery and we have seen a couple more this year as well. A new challenge we’re facing is that recent cases haven’t shown the typical clinical signs i.e. bloody diarrhoea, so it’s more difficult for producers to identify and it’s not always being picked up as early as it may have been previously. We encourage producers to be extra vigilant and if they see any kind of unusual diarrhoea, particularly if it’s twinned with wasting, to call their vet and get it checked out. If you do have an outbreak, make sure you restrict all visitors and movement while undergoing treatment; this applies to shows and events as well. Sign up to the significant diseases charter Sign up to the Charter through the Producer or Corporate section of your Pig Hub account at www.pighub.org.uk or find out more here. If you have any queries or need help to access your account, please do not hesitate to email us at [email protected] or contact Cheryl Barker, Health Coordinator at [email protected] or telephone 024 7647 8893.   Useful resources Biosecurity on pig farms: Reducing the spread of disease helps maintain the health of your pig unit, reduces the costs of disease and maintains productivity.   Muck Free Truck campaign In response to the heightened risk of African swine fever (ASF) reaching the UK, pig producers, processors and hauliers are being reminded that all vehicles must be properly cleaned through the #MuckFreeTruck campaign. Find out more and get your cab sticker Find out more about African swine fever    Market information Pork Talk market update videos AHDB Brexit hub Get in touch Email: [email protected] Sign up to receive the latest information from AHDB We'd love to know what you think of our podcasts. If you’d like to give your feedback, please complete our short questionnaire, which will help us to improve the podcast on an ongoing basis.