Rainy season brings high humidity, poor ventilation, and stress to pigs — all of which can trigger outbreaks of APP (Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae), a dangerous respiratory disease.
What is APP?
• A bacteria that normally lives in pigs’ tonsils without causing disease
• Becomes deadly under poor conditions
• Releases toxins that cause severe lung and pleural inflammation
Poor ventilation, high humidity, excessive ammonia levels, and overcrowding are all factors that can stress pigs and allow APP bacteria to multiply and cause disease. The danger isn’t just from the bacteria itself—it’s the toxins produced by APP that trigger severe inflammation of the lungs and pleura.
Symptoms of APP Infection
• High fever
• Sudden heavy breathing, panting
• Coughing and nasal bleeding
• Blue or purplish skin, especially on the ears, face, belly, and hindquarters
• Sudden death
Diagnosis
• Necropsy: Look for signs in the chest cavity—dark red lesions, abscesses, pus, or white membranes on the lungs and chest wall.
• Lab testing: Send lung samples for bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing.
• Blood testing: Use ELISA to detect antibodies against APP toxins (Apx toxins).
Treatment
• Isolate sick pigs
• Use antibiotics (injectable + in feed for 7–10 days)
• Cull non-responding pigs
Prevention Tips
• Buy pigs from disease-free sources
• Quarantine and test all new arrivals
• Use All-in/All-out system
• Improve ventilation & reduce crowding
• Disinfect regularly
• Consider APP vaccination
• Medicate feed 2 weeks before expected outbreak
Key Takeaway
APP may be silent most of the year, but it becomes aggressive when the weather shifts—especially during the rainy season. Stay alert, strengthen your farm’s defenses, and manage your herd well to reduce the risks.
“A healthy environment and proactive care go a long way in keeping APP under control.”
