Sarcoptic mange in swine:: Current prevalence

Although progressive swine producers implement effective programs for controlling or eradicating sarcoptic mange in pigs, some producers either ignore the clinical signs of Infestation or implement control programs that are inadequate. As reported In this article, a clearer understanding of the extent and severity of sarcoptic mange infestations was obtained by evaluating the carcasses of more than 27,000 slaughter hogs at seven packing plants in the midwestern United States, The carcasses were evaluated by means of the Papular Dermatitis Lesion Scoring System. Survey results demonstrated an overall prevalence of 43% for all lots sampled: severity of infestation was assessed as moderate to severe in 32% of these lots. On the basis of these findings, this article contends that sarcoptic mange remains a serious disease threat to be considered by swine producers located in the midwestern swine belt. Veterinarians can play an important role in educating all segments of the swine industry concerning the economic benefits of effective mange-control programs.