Comparison of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae response to infection by route of exposure

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (MHP) is a concern both for pig well-being and producer economic viability. In the absence of fully protective health interventions, producers rely on controlled exposure to induce an immune response in pigs minimize clinical outcomes MHP infection populations. This study compared effect route infection, antibody response, signs, pathology. Six-week-old MHP-negative (n = 78) were allocated negative control 6) or one three routes: intratracheal 24, feeding catheter), intranasal atomization device), aerosol fogger). Body weight, cough indices, samples (serum, oral fluid, tracheal) collected weekly through 49 days post-exposure (DPE). Intratrachal produced highest proportion (24/24) DNA-positive DPE 7, as well earlier higher serum response. Intranasal exposures resulted with DNA detected tracheal from 18/24 21/24 respectively. Aerosol had least impact weight gain (0.64 kg/day). No difference was observed among treatment groups coughing lung lesions at necropsy. While inoculation seeder animals are frequently used swine production settings, viable alternatives achieve infection. Regardless route, steps should be taken verify purity inoculum and, case exposure, avert unintended personnel other pathogens.