Pig industry to benefit from results of largest study
of health management
The findings of the largest ever study of health management and use of antibiotics in pig units within the UK will be revealed at two conferences to be held later this month (March 19 and 26).
The two-year study was carried out by the University of Aberdeen and the Royal Veterinary College, London, and was funded by DEFRA. Survey responses were received from 25% of the 2000 pig units in Great Britain, and detailed long-term studies of 40 pig units located across Britain will be reported.
The study information gives a useful background on biosecurity issues relevant to the national pig industry, as well as antiobiotic use and health management.
The conferences, which will be held at two venues to improve access, are targeted at the pig production and support sectors. The programme will include new information in support of improved health management, with time for open discussion.
Jamie Robertson, Livestock Projects Manager, Department of Agriculture & Forestry, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, is looking forward to welcoming delegates at what promises to be interesting one-day events. He said: "The exciting aspect is that the industry knows it must move forward on health issues, and we have up to date information to present as well as examples of novel strategies to assist the management of pig health.
"The conferences will provide a timely opportunity to get together with the production sector and discuss the future for a healthy pig industry."
Various speakers will be participating in the conferences from the research to industry sectors.