A leptospirosis outbreak in a piggery

Authors: Edwards JD, Daines D
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 27, Issue 11, pp 247-248, Nov 1979
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Pig, Production animal
Subject Terms: Abortion/stillbirth, Bacterial, Clinical pathology, Diagnostic procedures, Reproduction, Zoonosis, Disease/defect, Infectious disease, Reproduction - female, Public health
Article class: Clinical Communication

---

Abstract: A newly established piggery experienced an abortion storm that was diagnosed as being caused by Leptospira pomona. Serum antibody titres and urine culture indicated the rapid spread of infection within the piggery, and established the period since infection began. This showed the origin of infection to be one of the piggeries from which stock were purchased. Histological and microbiological studies indicated the continuing presence of L. pomona as the cause of abortion. Initial treatment with dihydrostreptomycin and “Leptovax” had no effect on preventing infection, and the subsequent use of “Terramycin” caused little modification to the spread of infection or prevention of abortions. The spread of leptospirosis through the herd resulted in a marked increase in the number of piglets aborted or born dead and, subsequently, a poor survival rate of piglets reared through to slaughter. Efforts are being made to control leptospirosis within the piggery, but eradication is currently considered to be almost impossible.

---