Treatment protocols for bacterial infections in pigs: A diagnostic approach and the rational use of antibiotics

Abstract

Intensive pig production, which involves housing large numbers of animals in confined, predominantly enclosed facilities, facilitates the emergence and spread of numerous infectious diseases. Bacterial infections may affect different organ systems and cause significant health disorders and economic losses. When disease occurs, a diagnosis should be established as soon as possible on the basis of clinical signs, pathological changes, the epidemiological situation and laboratory findings. The aim of the diagnostic process is to establish an aetiological diagnosis, including the isolation of bacterial agents and determination of their antimicrobial susceptibility. Owing to differences in production conditions, herd health status and biosecurity levels, the treatment protocol must be adapted to each occurrence of bacterial infection, even on the same farm. The choice of antibiotic therapy depends on the animals’ production stage and age category, the bacterial pathogen involved, the severity and location of the infection, expected or confirmed antimicrobial susceptibility, the local prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the medicinal product, as well as the withdrawal period and maximum residue limits in meat and pork products. The timely and rational use of antibiotics is fundamental to the successful treatment of bacterial diseases and constitutes an important part of the strategy to preserve their effectiveness and reduce the development of antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, every course of therapy should be based on a clearly defined treatment plan tailored to the particular herd, farm and current epidemiological situation. This paper presents treatment protocols for the most important bacterial infections in pigs, including the selection of antibiotics and the route and duration of their administration. The protocols are intended to promote the rational use of antimicrobial medicinal products, achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes, preserve animal health and production performance, and ensure food safety.