THE EFFECT OF WEANING AGE ON PATHOGEN REMOVAL

Early weaning procedures can be used to eliminate particular pathogens if the producer and veterinarian approach this technology with a well -defined plan. The concept of using weaning age for pathogen removal s tems from the theory that, for a certain period, pigs are protected fr om colonization by organisms through colostral antibodies. Pigs become susceptible to colonization and subsequent infection as colostral ant ibodies decline. Early weaning procedures attempt to move the pig from the source of infection to a pathogen-free environment when the antib odies are still protective. The formula for successful pathogen elimin ation involves control of the flow of pigs, people, and wildlife into the area where the weaned pigs are housed and determination of the opt imum weaning age through systematic sampling procedures. Success invol ves a proactive stance and a committment from the entire labor force.