Post-Weaning Diarrhoea in Pigs: Welfare and Antibiotic Stewardship

Post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD) caused by enterotoxigenic E. coli is a major welfare and antibiotic stewardship challenge in pig production globally.

Key Facts

PWD affects 30-50% of weaned piglets in unprotected herds, causing significant mortality and welfare impacts
E. coli strains producing heat-stable and heat-labile enterotoxins are the primary pathogens
Zinc oxide at therapeutic doses has been the main prophylactic treatment but is now restricted in the EU
Vaccines targeting F4 and F18 fimbriae can significantly reduce PWD incidence when applied pre-weaning

Welfare Considerations

Post-weaning diarrhoea causes rapid dehydration, weight loss, and in severe cases death within 24-48 hours. Welfare-positive management requires rapid recognition (loose yellow faeces, dehydrated piglets, sunken eyes) and early oral electrolyte therapy. Prophylactic antibiotic use for PWD is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance — alternatives including vaccination, direct-fed microbials, and management optimisation are welfare-positive because they reduce both disease burden and AMR risk.

What You Can Do

Support research into vaccine programs targeting F4 and F18 E. coli fimbriae for PWD prevention
Advocate for PWD management protocols that prioritise non-antibiotic prevention over prophylactic treatment
Encourage producers to implement oral electrolyte therapy protocols for rapid welfare intervention
Choose pork from farms with documented antibiotic stewardship programs and low PWD antibiotic usage