# Swine Health Monitoring and Disease Prevention Programs ## Key Takeaways - Swine health monitoring programs integrate daily observation, scheduled vaccinations, diagnostic testing (e.g., serology for PRRS, ELISA for influenza), and continuous biosecurity protocols to mitigate disease risk and optimize herd productivity. - Systematic observation requires trained personnel to identify early clinical signs such as altered respiration, feed intake reduction, or abnormal posture, with immediate documentation and escalation according to a written protocol. - Preventive vaccination schedules, developed in consultation with a veterinarian, are crucial for endemic and emerging diseases, with specific timing based on production stages (e.g., pre-breeding, pre-weaning) and vaccine storage adhering to strict temperature and light requirements. - Diagnostic confirmation through laboratory testing (e.g., PCR for viral pathogens, culture for bacterial agents) is essential for identifying causative agents, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring subclinical infections, with results interpreted alongside clinical signs and herd history. - Robust biosecurity measures, encompassing people (showering, dedicated clothing), vehicles (cleaning, disinfection), equipment, and animal quarantine (minimum 30 days), are paramount to prevent pathogen introduction and intra-herd transmission. - Establishing baseline health parameters (e.g., pre-weaning mortality, average daily gain, treatment rates) and defined intervention thresholds for each production stage allows for timely and appropriate responses to deviations from normal health status, preventing disease escalation. --- Swine health monitoring and disease prevention programs are systematic approaches that combine routine observation, scheduled vaccinations, diagnostic testing, and biosecurity protocols to maintain herd health and productivity. These programs require consistent record-keeping, defined response thresholds, and regular veterinary consultation to be effective. This guide provides practical steps for establishing and maintaining a swine health monitoring program on your farm. ## At a Glance | Program Component | Primary Purpose | Typical Frequency | Key Records Needed | |-------------------|-----------------|-------------------|-------------------| | Daily observation | Detect early signs of illness or distress | Every day, each barn check | Daily log of abnormal findings, treatments, mortalities | | Vaccination schedule | Prevent specific endemic and emerging diseases | Per protocol (e.g., pre-breeding, pre-weaning, grower phases) | Vaccine type, lot number, date, dose, pig group, administrator | | Diagnostic testing | Confirm disease presence, monitor subclinical infection, guide treatment | Routine (e.g., quarterly) or outbreak-triggered | Sample type, test method, lab results, interpretation, actions taken | | Biosecurity protocols | Prevent pathogen introduction and spread | Continuous, with audits | Visitor log, vehicle entry log, supply inventory, cleaning records | ## Core Principles of Swine Health Monitoring A swine health monitoring program rests on several core principles that guide daily management decisions. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides foundational research on animal production and protection, including disease surveillance and prevention strategies [1]. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) oversees swine disease monitoring and control programs at the national level, offering resources for producers [2]. The first principle is systematic observation. Every person entering a barn should be trained to recognize normal and abnormal pig behavior, posture, respiration, feed intake, and fecal consistency. Abnormal findings must be recorded and escalated according to a written protocol. The second principle is preventive vaccination. Vaccination schedules should be developed with a veterinarian based on the diseases prevalent in your region and production system. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides management and nutrition guidance that includes vaccination considerations for swine [3]. The third principle is diagnostic confirmation. When disease is suspected, laboratory testing should be performed to identify the pathogen. The FAO Animal Production and Health division supports global efforts to improve animal health surveillance and disease control [4]. The fourth principle is biosecurity. Biosecurity measures prevent the introduction of new pathogens and limit the spread of existing ones within the herd. The USDA National Agricultural Library maintains resources on animal health and welfare that include biosecurity guidelines [5]. ## Establishing a Routine Observation Protocol Routine observation is the foundation of any swine health monitoring program. It must be performed consistently and documented systematically. ### Daily Barn Checks Each barn check should include a walk-through of every pen or group. Observe pigs at rest and when active. Look for pigs that are separated from the group, lying in abnormal positions, or showing signs of respiratory distress such as coughing, sneezing, or labored breathing. Check feed and water availability and consumption. Note any pigs that are not eating or drinking normally. Record the following in a daily log: - Number of pigs observed - Number of pigs showing abnormal signs - Type of abnormal signs observed - Number of mortalities - Any treatments administered - Environmental conditions (temperature, ventilation, humidity) ### Weekly and Monthly Assessments Weekly assessments should include a more detailed examination of a sample of pigs from each production stage. Check body condition, skin condition, lameness, and fecal consistency. Weigh a representative sample to track growth performance. Monthly assessments should include a review of health records, mortality rates, treatment rates, and growth performance. Compare current data to historical baselines and target thresholds. The Merck Veterinary Manual offers guidance on interpreting production records for health monitoring [3]. ### Recognizing Common Disease Signs Common swine diseases present with specific clinical signs. Respiratory diseases such as [porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome](/knowledge/viruses/general/porcine-reproductive-and-respiratory-syndrome-genomic-surveillance-and-vaccine-strategies-using-bioinformatics) (PRRS) and [swine influenza](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/swine-swine-influenza-diagnosis-management) cause coughing, sneezing, fever, and reduced feed intake. Enteric diseases such as porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) cause watery diarrhea, dehydration, and high mortality in young pigs. Systemic diseases such as [African swine fever](/knowledge/bioinformatics/african-swine-fever-computational-models-for-early-detection-and-spread-prediction-in-wild-boar-populations) (ASF) cause fever, hemorrhages, and sudden death. The USDA APHIS swine disease page provides information on reportable diseases and surveillance programs [2]. Producers should be familiar with the signs of foreign animal diseases and know how to report suspected cases. ## Developing a Vaccination Schedule A vaccination schedule must be tailored to your herd's specific disease risks. Work with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary and when they should be administered. ### Vaccination Timing Vaccination timing depends on the disease, the vaccine type, and the production stage. Sows are typically vaccinated before breeding and before farrowing to provide passive immunity to piglets through colostrum. Piglets are vaccinated at weaning or shortly after for diseases such as PRRS, mycoplasma, and circovirus. Grower pigs may receive booster vaccinations depending on disease pressure. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general vaccination guidelines for swine, but specific protocols should be developed with veterinary input [3]. ### Vaccine Storage and Handling Vaccines must be stored and handled according to manufacturer instructions. Most vaccines require refrigeration at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Freezing damages many vaccines. Protect vaccines from light. Use vaccines before their expiration date. Record the lot number and expiration date of each vaccine used. ### Record Keeping for Vaccinations Maintain a vaccination record for each group of pigs. Include the following information: - Date of vaccination - Vaccine type and trade name - Lot number and expiration date - Dose administered - Route of administration (intramuscular, intranasal, oral) - Number of pigs vaccinated - Any adverse reactions observed ## Diagnostic Testing Strategies Diagnostic testing confirms the presence of disease, identifies the pathogen, and guides treatment and control decisions. Testing should be performed routinely and in response to disease outbreaks. ### Routine Surveillance Testing Routine surveillance testing monitors for subclinical infections and emerging diseases. The USDA APHIS National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) conducts periodic studies on swine health, including testing for pathogens such as Escherichia coli O157:H7 [16]. Producers can use similar testing approaches on their farms. Common routine tests include: - Serology for PRRS, swine influenza, and mycoplasma - Fecal testing for enteric pathogens - Feed and water testing for contaminants ### Outbreak Investigation Testing When a disease outbreak occurs, diagnostic testing is essential to identify the cause. Collect samples from affected pigs as early as possible. Include samples from pigs showing clinical signs and from pigs that have recently died. The USDA APHIS provides guidance on sample collection and submission for swine disease testing [2]. Common samples for outbreak investigation include: - Blood for serology and PCR - Nasal swabs for respiratory pathogens - Fecal samples for enteric pathogens - Tissue samples from necropsied pigs ### Interpreting Test Results Test results must be interpreted in the context of clinical signs, history, and other diagnostic findings. A positive test result does not always mean the pathogen is causing disease. Some pigs may be carriers without showing clinical signs. A negative test result does not always rule out disease, especially if samples were collected too early or too late in the course of infection. Work with your veterinarian and the diagnostic laboratory to interpret results and determine appropriate actions. ## Biosecurity Protocols Biosecurity is the most effective way to prevent disease introduction and spread. A comprehensive biosecurity program includes measures for people, vehicles, equipment, and animals. ### People Biosecurity All people entering the farm should follow biosecurity protocols. This includes showering in and out, wearing farm-specific clothing and boots, and avoiding contact with other pigs for a specified period before entering. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on biosecurity for livestock operations [5]. Maintain a visitor log that records: - Name and affiliation - Date and time of visit - Purpose of visit - Last contact with pigs - Biosecurity measures followed ### Vehicle and Equipment Biosecurity Vehicles entering the farm should be cleaned and disinfected. This includes feed trucks, livestock transport vehicles, and service vehicles. Equipment should be cleaned and disinfected between uses on different groups of pigs. ### Animal Biosecurity New animals should be quarantined for a minimum of 30 days before introduction to the herd. During quarantine, monitor for signs of disease and perform diagnostic testing as recommended by your veterinarian. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on quarantine and disease prevention [4]. ## Records and Measurements Accurate records are essential for monitoring herd health and evaluating the effectiveness of prevention programs. ### Health Records Maintain individual or group health records that include: - Date of observation or treatment - Pig identification (ear tag, tattoo, or group number) - Clinical signs observed - Diagnosis or suspected diagnosis - Treatment administered (drug, dose, route, duration) - Outcome (recovered, died, culled) ### Production Records Production records provide indirect measures of herd health. Key production indicators include: - Farrowing rate - Litter size - Pre-weaning mortality - Weaning weight - Average daily gain - [Feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) - Mortality rate by production stage The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on using production records to assess herd health [3]. ### Treatment Records Treatment records are required for regulatory compliance and to monitor antimicrobial use. Record the following for each treatment: - Date of treatment - Pig identification - Drug name and concentration - Dose and route of administration - Duration of treatment - Withdrawal period - Person administering treatment ## Common Failure Patterns Even well-designed health monitoring programs can fail. Common failure patterns include: ### Inconsistent Observation Observation is only effective if it is performed consistently. When barn checks are skipped or rushed, early signs of disease are missed. Assign specific personnel to each barn check and hold them accountable for completing the protocol. ### Incomplete Records Records are only useful if they are complete and accurate. Missing or inaccurate records make it difficult to identify trends and evaluate program effectiveness. Use standardized forms and train personnel on proper record-keeping. ### Delayed Response When disease is detected, a rapid response is essential. Delays in treatment, isolation, or diagnostic testing can allow disease to spread. Establish clear response protocols with defined thresholds for action. ### Poor Biosecurity Compliance Biosecurity protocols are only effective if they are followed consistently. Non-compliance by staff, visitors, or contractors can introduce disease. Conduct regular audits and provide ongoing training. ### Inadequate Vaccination Vaccination programs can fail if vaccines are stored improperly, administered incorrectly, or given at the wrong time. Review vaccination protocols regularly with your veterinarian. ## Limitations and Professional Escalation Health monitoring programs have limitations. No program can prevent all disease. Some diseases are difficult to detect early, and some pathogens are resistant to available vaccines or treatments. ### When to Escalate to a Veterinarian Escalate to a veterinarian when: - Mortality rates exceed baseline thresholds - Clinical signs suggest a reportable or foreign animal disease - Diagnostic test results are unclear or unexpected - Treatment is not effective - A disease outbreak is suspected The USDA APHIS provides contact information for state animal health officials who can assist with disease investigations [2]. ### When to Contact Regulatory Authorities Contact regulatory authorities immediately if you suspect a foreign animal disease such as African swine fever, classical swine fever, or foot-and-mouth disease. The USDA APHIS has established reporting protocols for suspected foreign animal diseases [2]. ## Welfare and Safety Context Swine health monitoring is directly linked to animal welfare. Sick pigs experience pain, distress, and reduced quality of life. Early detection and treatment of disease improves welfare outcomes. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal welfare standards for swine [5]. Worker safety is also important. Some swine diseases are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from pigs to humans. The publication "Emerging Zoonotic Threats from Swine: A Public Health Perspective" discusses the public health implications of swine diseases [13]. Producers should implement measures to protect workers from [zoonotic diseases](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/veterinary-pathology-microbiology/zoonotic-diseases-mechanisms-and-veterinary-public-health), including personal protective equipment and hygiene protocols. [Food safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) is another consideration. Antimicrobial use in swine can contribute to antimicrobial resistance, which is a public health concern. The study "Prevalence and Molecular Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli From Multiple Sectors of the Swine Industry in Korea" highlights the importance of monitoring antimicrobial resistance in swine populations [7]. Producers should use antimicrobials judiciously and follow withdrawal periods to ensure food safety. ## Technology and Innovation in Swine Health Monitoring Advances in technology are improving swine health monitoring capabilities. ### Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied to swine health monitoring. The study "Artificial Intelligence for Automatic Monitoring of Respiratory Health Conditions in Smart Swine Farming" describes the use of AI to detect respiratory diseases in pigs [14]. AI systems can analyze video, audio, and sensor data to identify early signs of disease. ### Digital Reporting Tools Digital tools are available for reporting swine health conditions. The "Swinelink" application provides a platform for swine health condition reporting and technical services [12]. These tools can improve communication between producers, veterinarians, and regulatory authorities. ### Health Assessment Indices Researchers have developed indices for multidimensional assessment of swine health. The study "An index for multidimensional assessment of swine health" describes a tool that combines multiple health indicators into a single score [9]. Such indices can help producers track overall herd health over time. ## Practical Decision Framework for Swine Health Intervention Thresholds A swine health monitoring program requires clear decision thresholds that trigger specific actions. Without defined intervention criteria, producers may respond too slowly to emerging disease or overreact to minor fluctuations. This section provides a practical decision framework based on production stage, clinical signs, and diagnostic results. ### Establishing Baseline Health Parameters Before setting intervention thresholds, you must establish baseline health parameters for your herd. The Merck Veterinary Manual recommends using historical production records to calculate normal ranges for mortality, morbidity, and treatment rates [3]. Collect at least six months of data to establish reliable baselines. Key baseline parameters to calculate include: - Pre-weaning mortality rate (percentage of live-born pigs that die before weaning) - Nursery mortality rate (percentage of pigs that die between weaning and 25 kg) - Grower-finisher mortality rate (percentage of pigs that die between 25 kg and market weight) - Sow mortality rate (percentage of sows that die or are culled annually) - Treatment rate (percentage of pigs treated per production stage per week) - Respiratory disease incidence (percentage of pigs showing coughing or labored breathing per week) - Diarrhea incidence (percentage of pigs showing abnormal fecal consistency per week) The study "An index for multidimensional assessment of swine health" describes a method for combining multiple health indicators into a single score that can be tracked over time [9]. This approach allows producers to monitor overall herd health instead of focusing on individual parameters. ### Intervention Thresholds by Production Stage Intervention thresholds should be specific to each production stage because disease impact and response capacity vary. #### Sow and Boar Thresholds For breeding animals, intervention is warranted when: - Sow mortality exceeds 2 percent annually - Abortion rate exceeds 2 percent of confirmed pregnancies per month - Return-to-estrus rate exceeds 10 percent after first service - Feed intake drops more than 15 percent from baseline for two consecutive days - Rectal temperature exceeds 39.5 degrees Celsius in any sow or boar The publication "Reproductive health of the sow during puerperium" discusses factors affecting reproductive health in the post-farrowing period [10]. Producers should monitor sows closely during this period for signs of metritis, mastitis, or agalactia. #### Pre-Weaning Piglet Thresholds For piglets from birth to weaning, intervention is warranted when: - Pre-weaning mortality exceeds 10 percent - Diarrhea affects more than 5 percent of piglets in any litter - More than 2 percent of piglets show signs of respiratory distress - Average weaning weight falls below target by more than 0.5 kg #### Nursery Pig Thresholds For pigs from weaning to approximately 25 kg, intervention is warranted when: - Mortality exceeds 3 percent per month - Treatment rate exceeds 10 percent per week - Average daily gain falls below 400 grams per day - More than 5 percent of pigs show signs of respiratory disease - More than 5 percent of pigs show signs of diarrhea #### Grower-Finisher Thresholds For pigs from 25 kg to market weight, intervention is warranted when: - Mortality exceeds 2 percent per month - Treatment rate exceeds 5 percent per week - Average daily gain falls below 700 grams per day - Feed conversion ratio increases more than 0.2 above baseline - More than 3 percent of pigs show signs of respiratory disease ### Decision Matrix for Common Clinical Scenarios A decision matrix helps producers determine the appropriate response based on the severity and pattern of clinical signs. | Clinical Scenario | Observation | Action | Escalation Criteria | |-------------------|-------------|--------|---------------------| | Single pig with mild cough | One pig coughing, normal appetite | Monitor for 24 hours | If more than 2 pigs in same pen develop cough within 48 hours | | Multiple pigs with cough | More than 5 percent of pen coughing | Collect nasal swabs, contact veterinarian | If fever develops or feed intake drops more than 10 percent | | Single pig with diarrhea | One pig with loose stool, normal behavior | Monitor for 24 hours, check feed and water | If more than 2 pigs in same pen develop diarrhea within 24 hours | | Multiple pigs with diarrhea | More than 5 percent of pen with watery stool | Collect fecal samples, isolate affected pen | If dehydration or mortality occurs | | Single pig found dead | No prior clinical signs observed | Perform necropsy, submit tissue samples | If more than one pig dies in same pen within 24 hours | | Multiple pigs found dead | Two or more pigs dead in same pen | Contact veterinarian immediately, restrict movement | If mortality exceeds 1 percent of barn population in 24 hours | | Sow off feed | Sow not eating for 24 hours | Check temperature, examine for injury or illness | If temperature exceeds 39.5 degrees Celsius or sow is down | | Lameness in multiple pigs | More than 3 percent of group lame | Examine feet and legs, check flooring | If lameness spreads to more than 5 percent of group | ### Record System for Intervention Tracking A structured record system is essential for tracking interventions and evaluating their effectiveness. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on record-keeping for animal health [5]. #### Daily Intervention Log Maintain a daily log that records: - Date and time of observation - Pen or group identification - Number of pigs affected - Clinical signs observed - Threshold exceeded (from decision matrix) - Action taken (monitor, treat, isolate, test) - Person responsible for action - Follow-up date and time #### Weekly Intervention Summary Each week, compile a summary that includes: - Total number of interventions by production stage - Most common clinical signs observed - Number of pigs treated - Number of pigs isolated - Number of diagnostic samples submitted - Number of mortalities by cause #### Monthly Intervention Review Each month, review intervention data to identify trends: - Are interventions increasing or decreasing? - Are certain clinical signs becoming more common? - Are interventions effective in resolving clinical signs? - Are there patterns by barn, pen, or production stage? The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on using production records to identify health trends [3]. Compare current intervention rates to historical baselines to determine if the health monitoring program is effective. ### Troubleshooting Method for Persistent Health Problems When health problems persist despite intervention, use a systematic troubleshooting method to identify root causes. #### Step 1: Verify Data Accuracy Before making changes, verify that records are complete and accurate. Check that observation protocols are being followed consistently. The study "Artificial Intelligence for Automatic Monitoring of Respiratory Health Conditions in Smart Swine Farming" describes how automated monitoring can improve data accuracy [14]. If using manual observation, ensure personnel are properly trained. #### Step 2: Analyze Patterns Look for patterns in the data: - Do problems occur in specific pens or barns? - Do problems occur at specific times of year? - Do problems affect specific genetic lines or age groups? - Do problems follow specific management events (weaning, moving, vaccination)? #### Step 3: Review Management Practices Examine management practices that may contribute to health problems: - Ventilation rates and air quality - Stocking density - Feed formulation and delivery - Water quality and availability - Sanitation and cleaning protocols - Vaccination timing and technique #### Step 4: Conduct Diagnostic Investigation If patterns and management review do not identify the cause, conduct a diagnostic investigation. The USDA APHIS provides guidance on sample collection and submission for swine disease testing [2]. Collect samples from affected and unaffected pigs to compare. #### Step 5: Implement Corrective Actions Based on findings, implement corrective actions. These may include: - Adjusting ventilation settings - Reducing stocking density - Changing feed formulation - Modifying vaccination protocols - Improving sanitation procedures - Isolating affected groups #### Step 6: Monitor and Evaluate After implementing corrective actions, monitor health parameters closely for at least two production cycles. The study "An index for multidimensional assessment of swine health" provides a framework for evaluating changes in herd health over time [9]. If health parameters do not improve, escalate to a veterinarian for further investigation. ### Common Failure Patterns in Intervention Decision-Making Even with a defined decision framework, producers may encounter common failure patterns. #### Threshold Drift Over time, producers may unconsciously adjust thresholds upward as they become accustomed to higher disease levels. This drift results in delayed intervention and worsening health outcomes. Prevent threshold drift by reviewing baseline parameters quarterly and recalibrating thresholds with veterinary input. #### Incomplete Data Collection When data collection is incomplete, intervention decisions are based on incomplete information. Ensure that all personnel are trained on proper record-keeping and that records are reviewed daily for completeness. #### Delayed Response to Escalation Criteria Even when thresholds are exceeded, producers may delay response due to workload, cost concerns, or hope that the problem will resolve on its own. Establish clear protocols that specify response timelines for each escalation criteria. #### Over-Reliance on Treatment Some producers rely too heavily on treatment instead of addressing underlying management issues. Treatment should be one component of a comprehensive response that includes management changes and biosecurity improvements. ### Limitations and Professional Escalation The decision framework described here is based on general swine health principles and should be adapted to your specific herd and production system. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that health parameters vary by herd and region [3]. Work with your veterinarian to establish thresholds appropriate for your operation. Escalate to a veterinarian when: - Health problems persist despite corrective actions - Mortality rates exceed 5 percent in any production stage - Clinical signs suggest a reportable or foreign animal disease - Diagnostic test results are unclear or unexpected - Multiple production stages are affected simultaneously The USDA APHIS provides contact information for state animal health officials who can assist with disease investigations [2]. For suspected foreign animal diseases, contact regulatory authorities immediately. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the most important component of a swine health monitoring program? The most important component is consistent daily observation by trained personnel. Early detection of disease allows for prompt treatment and prevents spread. Without consistent observation, other components of the program are less effective. ### How often should I vaccinate my pigs? Vaccination frequency depends on the disease, vaccine type, and production stage. Work with your veterinarian to develop a vaccination schedule specific to your herd. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general guidelines, but local disease pressure and herd history should guide decisions [3]. ### What diagnostic tests should I perform routinely? Routine diagnostic tests should target diseases that are endemic in your region or production system. Common tests include serology for PRRS, swine influenza, and mycoplasma, as well as fecal testing for enteric pathogens. The USDA APHIS provides guidance on surveillance testing [2]. ### How long should I quarantine new pigs? Quarantine new pigs for a minimum of 30 days. During quarantine, monitor for signs of disease and perform diagnostic testing as recommended by your veterinarian. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on quarantine protocols [4]. ### What should I do if I suspect a foreign animal disease? Contact your veterinarian and state animal health official immediately. Do not move pigs or equipment off the farm. The USDA APHIS has established reporting protocols for suspected foreign animal diseases [2]. ### How can I improve biosecurity compliance on my farm? Provide regular training for all staff and visitors. Conduct audits of biosecurity practices. Use signage to remind people of protocols. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on biosecurity for livestock operations [5]. ### What records should I keep for my swine health monitoring program? Maintain daily observation logs, vaccination records, treatment records, diagnostic test results, and production records. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on record-keeping for swine health [3]. ### How do I know if my health monitoring program is effective? Review health records, mortality rates, treatment rates, and production indicators regularly. Compare current data to historical baselines and target thresholds. If disease incidence is low and production indicators are within target ranges, the program is likely effective. If disease incidence is high or production indicators are declining, the program may need adjustment. ## Related Farming Guides - [Pig Lameness Monitoring And Flooring Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-lameness-monitoring-and-flooring-management) - [Manure Management For Pig Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/manure-management-for-pig-farms) - [Pig Barn Ventilation And Thermal Comfort](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-barn-ventilation-and-thermal-comfort) - [Pig Production Kpis And Herd Benchmarking](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-production-kpis-and-herd-benchmarking) - [Swine Barn Cleaning Disinfection And Downtime](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-barn-cleaning-disinfection-and-downtime) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection) - [www.aphis.usda.gov](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Exogenous porcine viruses.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12934944). Current topics in microbiology and immunology, 2003. - [Prevalence and Molecular Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli From Multiple Sectors of the Swine Industry in Korea: A Korean Nationwide Monitoring Program for a One Health Approach to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33303713). Annals of laboratory medicine, 2021. - [Artificial intelligence and porcine breeding.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38926001). Animal reproduction science, 2024. - [An index for multidimensional assessment of swine health.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33404929). Tropical animal health and production, 2021. - [Reproductive health of the sow during puerperium.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36054784). Molecular reproduction and development, 2023. - [Health status of free-ranging pure and cross-mixed miniature swine population from Northeast Spain.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34791799). [Veterinary medicine](/blog/careers/veterinary-medicine-careers-from-clinical-practice-to-public-health) and science, 2022. - [Swinelink: An Application for Swine Health Condition Reporting and Technical Services with Agent-Based Modefor African Swine Flu Outbreaks](https://doi.org/10.1109/iCORE58172.2022.00042). Proceedings 2022 2nd International Conference in Information and Computing Research Icore 2022, 2022. - [Emerging Zoonotic Threats from Swine: A Public Health Perspective](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-96-7407-7). Emerging Zoonotic Threats from Swine A Public Health Perspective, 2025. - [Artificial Intelligence for Automatic Monitoring of Respiratory Health Conditions in Smart Swine Farming](https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13111860). Animals, 2023. - [Zoonotic Disease Surveillance and Monitoring in Swine Populations](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-96-7407-7_3). Emerging Zoonotic Threats from Swine A Public Health Perspective, 2025. - [Testing of swine feces obtained through the National Animal Health Monitoring System's Swine 2000 study for the presence of Escherichia coli O157:H7](https://doi.org/10.4315/0362-028X-70.6.1489). Journal of Food Protection, 2007. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.