ThePigSite Pig Health
Erysipelas
See chapter 7 for further information.(331) It is unusual to see clinical signs of erysipelas in the lactating sow but when it does occur there is a high fever and sometimes but not always skin lesions. In a susceptible herd the piglets may also be affected. If sows are ill with very high temperatures first check that there is no mastitis or womb infection. In the absence of specific symptoms treat with penicillin or amoxycillin and assess the results of this .
Previous infection with erysipelas can cause growths on the valves of the heart (valvular endocarditis) resulting in circulatory problems at farrowing or in some cases heart failure and sudden death. All breeding stock should be vaccinated against this disease and where it is recognised early prompt treatment with penicillin over a period of 4 to 5 days should be given to prevent such chronic lesions developing.
