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Efficacy of ivermectin against the pig mange mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis
Abstract:
The efficacy of a single subcutaneous dose of ivermectin at 300 micrograms/kg was evaluated against Sarcoptes scabiei in a commercial herd of 146 pigs of which more than 80% were naturally clinically affected with mange. All pigs, except 6 control animals, were treated with ivermectin on Day 0. Scrapings for mite recovery were made from 12 treated animals and 6 controls at the time of treatment and 28 and 42 days later. No mites were recovered from pigs after treatment while live mites were present in scrapings from all control animals. No treated pigs had active lesions at examination on Day 42. The results are discussed in relation to recommendations for a control program for Sarcoptes scabiei in pigs.
Insights
A single dose of ivermectin effectively treated Sarcoptes scabiei mange in pigs. Treated pigs showed no mites or active lesions, indicating successful mange control in the commercial herd.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Animal Health
- Livestock Management
Background:
- Sarcoptes scabiei infestation causes significant economic losses in swine production.
- Mange significantly impacts pig welfare and productivity.
- Effective treatments are crucial for managing scabies in commercial herds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a single subcutaneous dose of ivermectin against Sarcoptes scabiei in pigs.
- To determine the duration of ivermectin's efficacy in controlling mange.
- To provide data for Sarcoptes scabiei control programs in swine.
Main Methods:
- A commercial herd of 146 pigs with natural Sarcoptes scabiei infestation was used.
- 140 pigs received a single subcutaneous dose of ivermectin (300 µg/kg) on Day 0.
- Control group (6 pigs) received no treatment; mite scrapings and lesion examinations were performed on treated and control animals at intervals.
Main Results:
- No Sarcoptes mites were recovered from any treated pigs at 28 and 42 days post-treatment.
- Live mites were consistently recovered from all untreated control animals.
- No active mange lesions were observed in treated pigs by Day 42.
Conclusions:
- A single subcutaneous dose of ivermectin at 300 µg/kg is highly effective in eliminating Sarcoptes scabiei in pigs.
- Ivermectin treatment provides sustained mite control and resolution of clinical signs for at least 42 days.
- These findings support the use of ivermectin in Sarcoptes scabiei control programs for swine.