Newborn piglets lack brown adipose (fat) tissue which is available to many other mammals as an energy source at birth and thereby they are more sensitive to cold stress when compared to other mammals. They are at greatest risk of hypothermia immediately after birth with a lowering of body-temperature of up to 5°C possible. Through shivering piglets try to maintain body temperature but as a result lose valuable energy reserves!
Energy intake is the most critical factor in determining piglet survival during the first 3 days of life. Large litters are susceptible to higher mortality because of lower birth weight and increased competition over teats.
In the case of prolonged farrowings, it may be beneficial to massage the abdomen of the sow.
Problems during the farrowing process may have negative consequences for the further development of the piglets.
Viral protection of sows and their foetuses against PRR-virus, Circovirus and Parvovirus inside the uterus.
A single vaccination of gilts against PRRS is insufficient for optimal protection. When facing PRRS-outbreaks, a stable herd immunity can only be achieved by total herd vaccination. Well tolerated sow vaccines allow vaccination of gestating sows during every stage of pregnancy.
US – Governor Terry E. Branstad travelled to Sioux Center last week to attend the grand opening for one of three Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (BIVI) specialised vaccine research facilities.
Why will vaccines feed the world?
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