Trichuriasis (whip worm, whipworm, Trichuris suis)
Trichuris suis (whip worm) is a parasite of the large intestine that causes diarrhea in growing pigs.
Description
Trichuris suis (whip worm) is a parasite of the large intestine that causes diarrhea that may contain mucus and blood. This diarrhea reduces the growth of pigs or may even make them lose weight.
Symptoms
Sows, nursery and fattening
- Diarrhea with blood and/or mucus.
- Dehydration.
- Hairy pigs.
- Slow growth and lose of weight.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Pigs raised outdoors, especially those exposed to the ground.
Diagnosis
Clinical condition, analysis of feces searching for typical eggs and a necropsy looking for worms in the large intestine.
Control / Prevention
- Limit access of pigs to soil.
- Use of anthelmintic specific forTrichuris suis. Not every anthelmintic is effective against this worm.
