Enzootic Pneumonia in Pigs: Welfare Impacts and Prevention

Enzootic pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is one of the most important welfare and production diseases affecting pigs globally.

Key Facts

M. hyopneumoniae infection is present in approximately 80% of commercial pig herds worldwide
Clinical signs include chronic coughing, reduced growth rate, and poor feed conversion
The pathogen causes chronic lung lesions reducing respiratory capacity throughout the pig's life
Co-infection with PRRS, Influenza, and bacteria worsens clinical signs significantly
Vaccination combined with improved housing ventilation substantially reduces disease burden

Welfare Considerations

Pigs with enzootic pneumonia experience chronic respiratory discomfort through the persistent cough and reduced lung function caused by M. hyopneumoniae lesions. The subclinical form causes sustained welfare impacts through poor growth and the chronic effort of breathing with damaged lungs. Pigs with severe pneumonia show laboured breathing, reduced activity, and reduced feed intake. The disease predisposes to secondary bacterial pneumonia that can be rapidly fatal with severe acute welfare impacts.

What You Can Do

Implement vaccination programmes against M. hyopneumoniae on affected farms
Improve housing ventilation to reduce aerosol transmission between pigs
Conduct regular lung lesion scoring at slaughter to monitor flock health
Ensure early and effective treatment of secondary bacterial infections
Work with your vet to develop a respiratory health monitoring and prevention programme