The general aim of the research project is to improve the control of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae (B. hyodysenteriae) infections in the Belgian pig production in order to reduce the economic losses for the sector and to reduce the use of antimicrobials. The specific objectives are:

1. To investigate whether B. hyodysenteriae can be eliminated from infected herds, and to assess the most efficient methods,
2. To investigate how B. hyodysenteriae-free herds can remain free of the infection, and which preventive methods are most important,
3. To investigate how B. hyodysenteriae infections can be controlled at the pig sector level.

The project will provide practical guidelines for pig farmers and veterinarians on how to eliminate B. hyodysenteriae from infected herds and how to maintain herds free of the pathogen. The project will also contribute to the development of control programs for the pig sector.

The research project involves a multidisciplinary collaboration between-scientists of different laboratories and/or departments with expertise in herd health, veterinary epidemiology and microbiology. The objectives of the research will be elaborated in four different work packages (WP1-WP4).