The event was held prior to the start of the 5th European Symposium of Porcine Health Management in Edinburgh, Scotland on 21 and 22 May.

The double-blind, controlled study evaluated the local and systemic immune response induced by mycoplasma vaccines in swine. Vaccines were formulated to deliver the same amount of antigen content either intradermally with the IDAL vaccinator device (MSD Animal Health) or intramuscularly by standard syringe application. These treatments were compared to a control group given a placebo.

Based on Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyopneumoniae) antibodies measured in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), fluid samples, collected in vivo, intradermal administration appeared to stimulate the immune system at least as efficiently as the intramuscular administration, if not better. In addition, the data supported that intradermal administration engages a more efficient stimulation of the mucosal and cell mediated immunity.

M. hyopneumoniae causes significant reduction in the growing weight of pigs and treatment, once infected, is limited to antibiotics that may not be effective.

"This highly contagious chronic respiratory disease in swine can have severe economic impact for farmers," explains Dr Rika Jolie, Director, Scientific Marketing Affairs, MSD Animal Health. "An effective means of vaccination against this disease can help farmers with the management of herd health."

Intradermal vaccination is an animal-friendly option, is less painful and stressful for the pigs at time of application, and has better hygiene and less potential for spread of disease. The intradermal application also provides a safer means of administering the vaccine with no implications to the quality of the meat.