MAINE, USA — A new round of test results from pigs indicate a need for better husbandry and management among Maine farmers, said Jim Britt, communications director for the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry.
The announcement follows a health advisory the state made in August warning about an increase of sick and dying young pigs in western Maine.
One of the pigs had tested positive for the potentially deadly bacteria Lawsonia, according to the health advisory.
"Testing of pig manure samples revealed the presence of parasites in all the samples, with coccidia being the most frequently found parasite," Britt said in an email about the most recent test results. "These findings underscore the need for improved farm management practices to prevent pathogen and parasite-related health issues in pig populations."
Maine State Veterinarian, Dr. Stefanie Bolas said the results are no reason for concern, but farmers should take action.
"This includes working closely with your veterinarian to make sure the right vaccines are given and scheduled, that pigs are getting dewormed on schedule, and their setup is appropriate," Dr. Bolas told NEWS CENTER Maine. "For pigs, it's a good idea to change their setup whether it's in a small pasture or fenced-in area."
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension both have helpful resources for farmers to check out, Bolas added.
"Our integrated pest management specialist in the department is working on some pest management strategies and guidance for farmers that raise backyard-type animals or small farms, specifically," she said. "Hopefully, that will be a great resource to be used.”