Vaccination could be an option for PWD control in a high proportion of herds

UK diagnostic testing data has indicated that vaccinating with Coliprotec to prevent post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD) in piglets, could be an effective strategy in nearly 60 percent of herds. 

58% of bacterial culture and PCR diagnostic tests carried out by Elanco this year have returned positive for the F4 or F18 strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), both of which can be vaccinated against. 

“PWD is a serious condition affecting a large proportion of pig farms across the UK. F4 and F18 are the most prevalent ETEC strains associated with the disease, however other strains of E. coli can be responsible,” explains Gillian Bryson, swine account manager.  “Other pathogens such as rotavirus, Campylobacter and Cryptosporidium can also play a role, especially if gut integrity is already compromised.”

It is important to know exactly what strains you are dealing with to implement appropriate prevention strategies. The continued use of zinc oxide in weaner diets is somewhat masking the true impact of the disease and once zinc is no longer available producers may well find it difficult to control PWD if they haven’t already considered an alternative prevention plan. Preparing in advance is therefore a must, and this should begin with diagnostic testing to identify the challenges on-farm which could cause PWD. Producers can then consider the best way of controlling the disease to avoid significant drops in liveweight gain and extended finishing times.

There is not going to be one single solution and multiple measures will be required, including improved biosecurity as well as vaccination where appropriate. The options available include vaccinating with Coliprotec™, an in-water oral vaccine that protects piglets against the two main PWD strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli, F4 and F18. Piglets can be vaccinated from 18 days of age with onset immunity within seven days, providing early protection against the disease.¹

Vaccination offers a good return on investment, particularly when used in tandem with other measures such as good hygiene and nutrition. Farms using Coliprotec vaccine are reducing their reliance on antimicrobials to control scours. They’re also noticing that piglets are eating more, and that they’re achieving an extra 2kg of slaughter weight² while reaching market weights up to seven days sooner ³.

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