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Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen in young pigs. Over the years, vaccines and natural planned exposure methods have been used on farms to control potential outbreaks. Recently, the pig industry has seen an increase in outbreaks of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and in the virulence of the organism. Additionally, the timing of these outbreaks has shifted from early to mid and late nursing periods.
Clinical signs typically begin during the second and third weeks post-weaning and can persist for days, often accompanied by watery diarrhea. Mortality rates can rise from 2% to over 20%, potentially leading to increased morbidity and reduced growth rates.
Nutritional interventions can be utilized to minimize ETEC infections. It is essential to prevent ETEC adhesion by altering intestinal viscosity, pH, microorganism competition, or providing direct antimicrobial activity while reducing the potential for infection.
Weaning diets that transition from three to four feeding phases have been shown to reduce ETEC adhesion. This is attributed to complex diets being maintained longer and a decrease in non-digestible crude protein.
Low crude protein diets have been recognized as a way to reduce fermentable protein reaching the large intestine by lowering crude protein levels and supporting amino acid requirements with specific amino acids. Feeding low crude protein diets has also been shown to increase the presence of goblet cells and decrease sodium-glucose transporters.
Mineral supplementation, specifically zinc and copper at pharmacological levels, has been applied in feeding programs in the United States to reduce pathogen adhesion and enhance pathogen death. However, excessively high mineral levels or prolonged durations of these levels may lead to joint disorders.
Inclusion of fiber, such as oats, has been shown to reduce ETEC shedding. Focusing on insoluble fibers helps prevent the proliferation and adhesion of ETEC in the intestine. Careful incorporation of fiber can be beneficial before and during periods when ETEC might be problematic.
Prebiotics, such as manno-oligosaccharides, can stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Probiotics are live organisms added to the diet to increase the population of beneficial bacteria in the gut; common examples include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Postbiotics, such as yeast and Lactobacillus, have been shown to positively affect the immune system.
Other additives that inhibit ETEC include clays, phytogenics, antibiotics, and medium-chain fatty acids. Products like spray-dried plasma, organic acids, and egg antibodies have also been proven effective in reducing ETEC shedding.
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Source: Tarım Haberleri
John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.
