I am fascinated with new developments in the swine industry. Aside from being interesting and informative, having access to new knowledge allows me to understand this field even more. The Pig Site presents a way to control and treat SRD in a three-part video.

SRD otherwise called Swine Respiratory Disease, is one of the leading causes of mortality in nursery pigs, growers and finishers. This comes from data presented by the Health Monitoring System.

This is a condition that may be caused by multiple agents. This may include Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Bordatella bronchiseptica, swine influenza virus (SIV) and many others. Here is a complete list of primary pathogens, secondary pathogens and common symptoms.

SRD is a common problem that poses a serious threat to people in the swine industry. In the past, most producers had to be careful as respiratory disease was endemic in many herds. According to the Merck Vet Manual, the best way to avoid it was by not buying live animals and making use of artificial insemination. These practices are still used to this day. Another thing that many growers adhere to is emptying the entire barn before they refill it with new stock.

However, there are also various control factors to consider. These would include ventilation, density of stock, temperature and stress. This explains why the “all in/all-out” strategy is preferred.

Merial developed Zactran to combat both bovine and porcine respiratory conditions. Otherwise called Gamithromycin, Zactran is a 15-membered semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. It belongs to the azalide subclass and helps prevent and treat respiratory diseases in cows and pigs. It contains anti-infectious properties and according to reports, it is able to influence the inflammatory processes.

To find out more about this new product by Merial, you watch a three-part video found in The Pig Site. If you are in the swine industry or considering it in the future, these videos will prove helpful.

Are you searching jobs in the swine industry? Check the listings found at Continental Search and discover a wide variety of opportunities. Send me an email if you would like me to help you figure feasible options to further your career.

Jim Hipskind, CPC, Sr. Recruiter

Agriculture Technology Manufacturing recruiter recruiting

Celebrating 30 years as a Recruiter!

Jim Hipskind brings 30+ years of recruiting experience in processing, manufacturing, food and agriculture.  Jim presently manages searches in feed mill management, engineering, swine farm management and sales in the swine industry.

Visit Jim’s LinkedIn profile for more information and updates about current trends in the swine industry.

Jim also be reached directly at (800) 799-4520 or you send your resume to him at jim@continentalsearch.com.