Deworming (Internal Parasite Control)

Internal parasites like roundworms (Ascaris suum), lungworms, and whipworms are very common in pigs in India and cause major production losses. Infected pigs show slow growth, poor feed conversion, coughing, pot-bellied appearance, and diarrhoea. ICAR-NRCP (2020) estimates that parasitic infections can reduce the growth rate of pigs by 15–30%.

Recommended Deworming Schedule

Animal Category

Deworming Age / Time

Drug Used

Piglets

3–4 weeks of age, then every 2 months

Fenbendazole or Albendazole

Growing pigs (Growers)

Every 3 months

Ivermectin or Levamisole

Breeding boars

Every 6 months

Ivermectin injection

Pregnant sows

2 weeks before farrowing

Fenbendazole (oral)

All pigs (general)

At least twice a year

As advised by veterinarian

Source: ICAR-NRCP Pig Health Manual (2020); ICAR Handbook of Animal Husbandry (2015)

Control of External Parasites

External parasites such as ticks, lice, mange mites, and flies cause skin irritation, anaemia, and can spread diseases. ICAR-NRCP (2020) advises regular inspection of pig skin, especially around the ears, neck, and inner thighs, for signs of infestation.

• Spray pigs and their pens with approved acaricides (tick-killing chemicals) such as Deltamethrin or Cypermethrin every 2–3 months.

• Ivermectin injection (0.3 mg/kg body weight) is effective against both internal and external parasites and is recommended by ICAR-NRCP.

• Keep pig sheds dry and well-ventilated to reduce fly breeding.

• Clean dung every day, as dung is the main breeding ground for flies and other insects.

(ICAR-NRCP Pig Health Manual, 2020)

Vaccination — Why It Is Important

Vaccination is the most cost-effective way to prevent infectious diseases in pigs. ICAR-NRCP (2021) strongly recommends that all pig farmers follow a regular vaccination schedule. A vaccine works by training the pig's immune system to fight a specific disease, so when the real infection comes, the pig's body can defeat it quickly.

As ICAR (Handbook of Animal Husbandry, 4th Edition, 2015) states, vaccination programmes must be planned according to the disease situation in the local area, age of animals, and the type of production system — backyard, semi-intensive, or intensive.

Recommended Vaccination Schedule for Pigs in India

The following schedule is based on ICAR-NRCP recommendations for Indian pig farmers:

Disease

Vaccine Used

Age at First Dose

Booster

Route

Classical Swine Fever (CSF)

Crystal Violet Vaccine / Lapinised Virus Vaccine

6–8 weeks of age

Every 6 months

Subcutaneous (SC)

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

FMD Polyvalent Vaccine (O, A, Asia-1)

4 months of age

Every 6 months

Subcutaneous (SC)

Swine Erysipelas

Erysipelas Bacterin

8–10 weeks

Annual

Intramuscular (IM)

Porcine Parvovirus (PPV)

PPV Inactivated Vaccine

Gilts: 6–8 weeks before mating

Every pregnancy

Intramuscular (IM)

Swine Pasteurellosis

Pasteurella Bacterin

8 weeks

Annual

Subcutaneous (SC)

Source: ICAR-NRCP Vaccination Schedule for Pigs (2021); NRC on Pig, Rani, Guwahati

Important Rules to Follow During Vaccination

Vaccination will only work if done correctly. ICAR-NRCP (2021) advises farmers to follow these important rules:

• Only vaccinate healthy pigs. Sick or weak pigs should be treated first before vaccinating.

• Always check the expiry date of the vaccine before use.

• Store vaccines in a cold box or refrigerator at 2–8°C. Never freeze vaccines unless specifically instructed.

• Use a clean, sterilised needle and syringe for each pig to avoid spreading infection.

• Record the date of vaccination, vaccine batch number, and pig details in a register.

• Do not vaccinate pregnant sows within 4 weeks of expected delivery unless advised by a veterinarian.

• After vaccination, observe pigs for 30–60 minutes for any allergic reactions.

(ICAR, 2015; ICAR-NRCP Advisory, 2021)