Use of next generation sequencing techniques to detect bacterial and vial infections in post weaning diarrhoeic pigs and application of novel interventions for treating enteric disease

Postweaning diarrhoea (PWD) is a significant disease issue requiring antimicrobial use, often involving multi-drug resistant pathogens and having a negative implication on pig health and welfare.  The ban on therapeutic use of zinc-oxide to control PWD in 2022 may increase the incidence of PWD and antimicrobial (AM) use with negative implications for pig health, welfare and the reputation of the industry. This project uses samples from both clinically affected and age matched healthy pigs, produced in commercial pig environments. Analysis will compare the gut environments of affected and healthy pigs to identify co-infectious agents.  Antimicrobial susceptibility testing will help provide baseline data to vets so that they can make informed decisions on the appropriate antimicrobial treatment.