Managing Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infection in pigs — from acute septicaemia to chronic arthritis.
Erysipelas causes significant welfare impairment in multiple forms. Acute septicaemic disease produces high fever (41-42°C), severe depression, and characteristic diamond-shaped skin lesions (urticaria). Pigs are acutely ill, reluctant to move, and may die suddenly without premonitory signs. The acute phase involves significant suffering from septicaemia and fever.
Chronic articular erysipelas causes persistent joint pain and lameness that progressively worsens. Affected pigs struggle to rise, show severe gait abnormalities, and lose body condition from reduced access to feed due to lameness. The chronic pain of erosive arthritis significantly reduces welfare over months. Vegetative endocarditis (heart valve infection) causes cardiac failure as a further chronic welfare burden.
Prevention through vaccination is straightforward and highly effective. Two primary vaccinations followed by annual or biannual boosters prevent clinical disease in most pigs. Treatment of acute cases with high-dose penicillin is effective if started promptly. Chronically affected arthritic pigs rarely recover satisfactory locomotion and should be humanely culled.