Controlling a PRRS infection by improving immunity

At Kemin, it is our priority, together with our partners and customers, to reduce antibiotic use in pigs by providing the best possible alternatives and applicable services. To make this possible, our science-based solutions leverage the beneficial effects of intestinal health management and immune support. Immune modulation plays a vital role in disease prevention and improved health; it helps animals cope better with disease, stress, and vaccination. That is why at Kemin we have found the need for innovation in this area to ensure a uniform and safe immune support solution that improves overall animal health.

Together with John Hayden, Pig Veterinarian, and Chris Fogden, Pig Farmer, we evaluated our unique Beta-Glucan product, Aleta^TM in challenging field conditions. Aleta is a unique Beta-Glucan product derived from an algae, which is used for immune support and modulation to improve general health of the animals. Aleta contains a Beta-(1,3)-Glucan.The objective of this particular study was to assess the impact of Aleta on the resilience and resistance of an outdoor breeding pig herd to PRRS infection, circulation and shedding.

Healthy pigs with a minimum amount of antibiotics

“It is always our goal to focus on healthy, productive pigs using a minimum amount of antibiotics”, explains John Hayden. He continues: “however, we had a lot of issues to control a PRRS infection in a, outdoor breeding pig herd, resulting in a 20% pre-weaning mortality. We started investigating Aleta as we saw that the immune system of the herd was under pressure. Interestingly, the pre-weaning mortality and the performance of the pigs came under control quicker.”

“We have been having this long-term health challenge, impacting the weaning quality and weight. We looked at products to help us with vaccine efficiency and tried Aleta. After my experience, I would recommend everybody to look into these. We have only been using it for some time and I am very happy with how they are looking”, states Pig Farmer Chris Fogden. Interested to hear his entire story? Watch the video!

Find more information in our Poster presented at the ESPHM 'Immunomodulation to speed up PRRS stabilization in a breeding herd in the UK'. Open it here.