The efficacy of simplified eradication strategies against sarcoptic mange mite infections in XXXX herds monitored by an ELISA.

@entity3070 @entity1707 @entity9250
Eradication programmes directed against Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis, performed without any disinfection of the environment, were compared to an eradication programme including a simultaneous environmental disinfection. The performance of such programmes would be facilitated considerably if environmental disinfection could be avoided. The trial was conducted in four conventional piglet-producing herds designated A-D. All herds suffered from a subclinical but persistent infection with the sarcoptic mite. Herd A was treated with two injections of @entity3070 and simultaneously disinfection of the environment was done. In the other herds, the animals were treated twice (B and C) or three times (D) with acaricides (ivermectin or phoxim) at intervals of 7-12 days without any simultaneous disinfection of the buildings or environment. The results were monitored by attempts to demonstrate the mite by skin scrapings, and by monitoring the levels of serum antibodies to Sarcoptes scabiei by an ELISA. Samples were taken from all adults and from 20% of the piglets aged 10-12 weeks, before initiating the control programmes, every third month during the first year and a final sampling 18 months after the treatments. After treatment, the levels of antibodies continuously decreased. Presumably dead @entity9250 were demonstrated in one sow from two of the herds 3 months after initiating acaricidal treatments. @entity9250 was not demonstrated later, nor from skin scrapings of the piglets. The results obtained demonstrate that it is possible to eradicate sarcoptic mange mites in @entity1707 herds with the use of simplified eradication programmes. The success of such programmes may efficiently be monitored by measuring the levels of serum antibodies to @entity9250 .
