Keep an Eye on Conjunctivitis

Do you know how to recognize conjunctivitis (often referred to as “pinkeye”) in swine? A new publication from the Iowa Pork Industry Center is designed to help producers recognize the condition and what to do when it is detected in their herd.

Iowa State University extension swine veterinarian Chris Rademacher says many cases are observed during the late nursery to early grow-finish phase. It’s characterized by inflammation of the conjunctival membranes of the eye.

The inflammation can be caused by common infectious pathogens and non-infectious avenues such as high levels of dust or ammonia, elevated hydrogen sulfide levels, and allergenic bedding material.

Rademacher says it’s also a common complaint among producers, including those involved in swine shows.

“Both prevalence and severity in a group depend on the route of infection and transmission,” Rademacher explains. “For example, Chlamydia suis is a common agent, yet other viruses such as PRRS, Influenza A, and pseudorabies should be ruled out with veterinarian assistance.”

If you think your pigs have conjunctivitis, he encourages assessing environmental conditions, taking swab samples, and working with a veterinarian on the next steps.