Pig diseases

There are a number of diseases that affect pigs.

Some of these are endemic—meaning they occur naturally in Australia – and while they range in severity, most can be controlled by vaccination programs and good management and hygiene on farm. Examples of endemic pig diseases are erysipelas, APP (Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae), scours (diarrhoea caused by E. coli or other infections), and greasy pig.

Other diseases are exotic – meaning they do not occur naturally in Australia – and these are often more severe. Some result in high mortalities in affected animals, some affect multiple livestock species in addition to pigs or may even pose a risk to human health, and some cannot be prevented due to a lack of viable vaccines. Examples of exotic diseases are African swine fever (ASF), foot and mouth disease (FMD), and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS).