Abstract:

The survival of Streptococcus suis on farm and veterinary equipment

Scott A. Dee, DVM, MS; and Michelle M. Corey

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The ability of Streptococcus suis to survive and be transmitted on farm and veterinary equipment when exposed to a wide range of climactic and environmental stress factors was assessed. Pure cultures of S. suis were placed on surfaces or materials commonly found on farms and/or in veterinary practices and cultured at predetermined time intervals. Overall, isolates lived longer on rubber and plastic surfaces, especially when protected by hog manure. Isolates were viable at up to 55 degrees C and could survive if kept frozen for up to 10 days. Repeated freezing and thawing was detrimental to the survival of the organism. Viable isolates were obtained for up to 4 days in aluminum hydroxide vaccines but for less than 24 hours in oil-based products. S. suis survived for 10 days at 4 degrees C when stored in porcine tissues or body fluids. No bacterial growth was detected in any disinfectant tested except 70% alcohol. The organism was shown to be able to be transmitted via fomites (such as manure-covered work boots veterinary vehicles and needles.

Keywords: Streptococcus suis

RIS citationCite as: Dee SA, Corey MM. The survival of Streptococcus suis on farm and veterinary equipment. J Swine Health Prod 1993;1(1):17-20.

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