By Sherry Hoyer
Conjunctivitis (sometimes referred to as “pinkeye”) in swine is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctival membranes of the eye. Causes can include common infectious pathogens and non-infectious avenues such as high levels of dust or ammonia, elevated hydrogen sulfide levels and allergenic bedding material.
A new publication from the Iowa Pork Industry Center, Conjunctivitis in Swine, has information on how to recognize the condition and what to do when it is detected in your animals. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach swine veterinarian Chris Rademacher, who is one of the authors, said many cases are observed during the late nursery to early grow-finish phase. Conjunctivitis also is a common complaint among producers, including those involved in swine exhibition opportunities.
“Both prevalence and severity in a group depend on the route of infection and transmission,” he said. “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.”