Managing swine respiratory diseases is economically important for the pork industry, which is why the relatively new Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica 3FLEX vaccine is being well received by producers.
During a BIVI press conference at World Pork Expo, experts discussed the latest findings in managing swine respiratory diseases such as Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), Porcine Circovirus Associated Disease (PCV2) and mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. hyo).
“These diseases have drastic economic impacts on the swine industry; the PRRS virus alone is estimated to cost the U.S. Swine industry $664 million annually,” said Dr. John Waddell, Professional Services Veterinarian for BIVI, who suggests using a five-step process to help manage respiratory diseases. That is: 1) Identify desired goals; 2) Determine current status of farm; 3) Understand current constraints; 4) Develop solution options; and 5) Implement and monitor preferred solutions.
Listen to or download an interview with Dr. Waddell here: Dr. John Waddell
Darin Madson, Assistant Professor of Pathology with the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, presented the latest research findings on PCV2 in-utero infection and the role of vaccination, noting that in-utero PCV2 infection is more common than clinical reproductive disease.
“Research indicates that dam vaccination decreases reproductive disease, in-utero infection and secretion of virus through milk and colostrum. Also, research shows dam vaccination improves herd reproductive parameters, piglet weaning weights and has an effect on nursery/growth-finish mortality,” said Dr. Madson.
Listen to or download an interview with Dr. Madson here: Dr. Darin Madson
BIVI Swine Technical Manager Greg Cline discussed how 3FLEX, the first USDA approved three- way combination package, mixed and administered as a single shot for pigs three weeks of age and older, is helping producers manage these respiratory diseases. “There are many benefits to using 3FLEX. Using a combination vaccine saves time and money by reducing labor costs associated with handling and treating pigs multiple times, reduces the number of injection sites and reduces animal stress,” Dr. Cline said. BIVI has had great response from producers since the product was introduced just about a year ago.
Listen to or download interview with Greg Cline here: Dr. Greg Cline
Find out more about 3FLEX online at flexcombo.com.
2012 World Pork Expo Photo Album
