Actinobacillus equuli as a primary pathogen in breeding sows and piglets

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Pathology
• Swine Health

Background:

• Actinobacillus equuli is a bacterial pathogen typically associated with foal infections.
• Swine infections with Actinobacillus equuli are uncommon, with limited documented cases in North America.
• A large-scale farrow-to-isowean operation in Manitoba experienced significant sow mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a recent outbreak of Actinobacillus equuli infection in a commercial swine herd.
• To highlight the unusual presentation of this pathogen in adult swine.
• To contribute to the limited literature on Actinobacillus equuli in swine populations.

Main Methods:

• Case investigation of sow mortality on a commercial swine farm.
• Bacterial isolation and identification from affected animals.
• Review of clinical signs and epidemiological data.

Main Results:

• Over 300 sows died within a two-month period.
• Infection with Actinobacillus equuli was identified as the cause of mortality.
• This represents the second reported case of Actinobacillus equuli in North American swine.

Conclusions:

• Actinobacillus equuli can cause significant mortality in adult swine, challenging its perception as solely a foal pathogen.
• The findings underscore the importance of considering unusual pathogens in swine disease outbreaks.
• Further surveillance and research are needed to understand the epidemiology of Actinobacillus equuli in swine.