Control

Effective control will be based on controlling challenge to the piglets, and preventing anyinfection which occurs from becoming established in the gut wall.

Medication of sows. Amprolium and monensin have been used to reduce challenge, but as the sow only plays a small part in building up the challenge this medication is not so important and is frequently not done.

Prevention of carry over of oocysts from previous batches is vital. Note that these are very resistant. Such heroic measures as flame guns or steam cleaning for a long period have been described. The universally successful disinfectant which is highly effective against oocysts is Oocide?(Antec International). In most cases this is the most important part of controlling coccidiosis. If houses are thoroughly cleaned with this product coccidiosis is often controlled with no other measures.

Control of rapid multiplication in infected piglets can be achieved by early and sometimes repeated treatment of piglets.

The best product for control in piglets is toltrazuril (Baycox- Bayer). This needs to be given prior to the time that coccidial oocysts mature and invade the gutwall. It is traditionally given at 3-4 days at a dose of 10-20mg/kg. In farms which experience a delayed problem it can be repeated at 10 days. If it is given after scour has started the response is much poorer.

How long does toltrazuril treatment need to continue? Due to resistant nature of the oocysts it could be permanent unless environmental build-up is controlled. This depends on hygiene. Following thorough disinfection with Oocide?for two cycles most units will be able to stop treatment. Then prevent recurrence by disinfecting farrowing houses with Oocide?twice yearly.

Improve biosecurity in farrowing houses, especially when moving between pens and houses. Disinfect equipment and boots when moving and do not share equipment between houses.

References:

1. Neistrath, M. et al 2002. The role of Isospora suis as a Pathogen in Conventional PigletProduction in Germany. Journal of Veterinary Medicine 49, 176.
2. Jarvinen, J.A. 1993. Neonatal porcine Coccidiosis facilitates bacterial invasion. Proc 38thAmerican Association of Veterinary Parasitologists.

Further information

For further information, visit the Coccidiosis section in our Quick Disease Guide.

Source: Antec International - March 2004