The aim of this study was to compare the results of active non-specific immuno-modulation in form of feeding food additive based on beta-glucan to pregnant sows and consecutive specific immuno-modulation by vaccination of their sucklings. Experimental sows were fed feedstuff with preparation on basis of beta-glucan at a 5% concentration from day 14 before parturition until the weaning of piglets; control sows were fed standard feedstuff only. Sucklings were vaccinated with a single dose of 2 ml of oral vaccine Enterisol ® Ileitis one week before weaning. Collection of biological material was done 3 × in sows and 5 × in sucklings. Postvaccination examination of blood serum for antibodies against L. intracellularis in sucklings in experimental and control groups was negative, probably due to insufficiently long period of rejection of antibiotics-medicated feedstuff and by chlorinated water. With the exception of immunological profile, no essential changes were recorded in the dynamics of other indices of examined profiles in groups of sows in relation to immune-modulation. In groups of sucklings from sows fed beta-glucan supplemented feedstuff significant changes were determined for various indices compared with sucklings from sows fed standard foodstuff. This is the first similar study in pig herds in Slovakia.

Abstract:The aim of the study was to analyze clinical and laboratory findings in calves after birth and on the fifth day of age in the farm with the occurrence of bluetongue disease. Presence of a disease has been confirmed in heifers that were imported to Slovakia from France. In August 2008 a total of 132 heifers were imported to Slovakia. Based on serological examinations, presence of antibodies reactive to the virus was proved. In 5 heifers without the presence of virus reactive antibodies, virus was diagnosed. Of 120 calves born, 13 were virologically positive. 10 calves born in the farm were included in the survey. 2 of them were virologically positive, born to serologically negative dams. In 8 control calves born in the same time no antibodies were detected after birth. During clinical examination no clinical signs typical for bluetongue disease were observed. Laboratory examination in the monitoring period showed increase in hepatic profile parameters in virologically positive calves. In virologically negative calves we have detected increased hepatic profile parameters on the 1st day of life. On the 5th day in this group some of the parameters decreased to the physiological levels. Alterations in the selected biochemical parameters that we have detected in virologically positive and negative animals were likely not influenced by infection with bluetongue.