Porcine Streptococcus suis Infection – NAVLE Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic bacterium that represents one of the most significant bacterial pathogens affecting the global swine industry. This organism is the leading cause of bacterial mortality in post-weaned piglets and is recognized as an important emerging zoonotic pathogen capable of causing severe disease in humans, particularly meningitis with permanent hearing loss.
S. suis naturally colonizes the upper respiratory tract (particularly tonsils and nasal cavities), reproductive tract, and alimentary tract of clinically healthy pigs. While nearly 100% of pigs may carry the organism, clinical disease incidence is typically less than 5%. However, in susceptible populations or during outbreaks, mortality rates can reach 20% without appropriate treatment.
Etiology and Microbiology
Organism Characteristics
Streptococcus suis is characterized by the following microbiological features:
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