Disease-associated Streptococcus suis (DASS) in lactation: Detection patterns and implications for control

Background: Disease-associated Streptococcus suis (DASS) refers to strains of S. suis that cause systemic infections in swine, including meningitis, septicemia, and pneumonia, resulting in significant economic losses and welfare concerns. Effective control of DASS on swine farms requires accurately detecting these pathogenic strains and identifying carrier animals and reservoirs. In this study, the dynamics of DASS colonization in clinically healthy dams, their piglets, and the surrounding environment was investigated on two commercial swine farms using novel qPCR assays: one targeting the recN gene (species-specific) and another targeting the SSU_RS01130 gene (associated with disease-causing strains). The objectives were to identify optimal sampling sites, assess the impact of dam parity, and understand the disease dynamics of DASS to provide evidence-based recommendations for improved control strategies. Results: Gilts and their piglets consistently exhibited higher DASS colonization compared to sows, underscoring the need for parity-based interventions. Tonsil and nasal samples were the most reliable for DASS detection in dams, while udder, fecal, and environmental samples also served as important reservoirs for piglet colonization. All piglets were colonized with S. suis within 24 hours of birth, but not all carried DASS; notably, a substantial proportion, particularly on Farm 1, remained DASS-negative at weaning. DASS detection in piglets decreased at day 7 and rebounded by day 21, reflecting dynamic colonization patterns. Farm-specific differences highlighted the impact of management practices and strain variation, with Farm 2 showing consistently higher DASS prevalence and persistence. Notably, some litters remained consistently DASS-negative, suggesting that selective management and hygiene could effectively limit transmission. Conclusion: This study highlights how parity, sampling site selection, and environmental reservoirs influence DASS colonization and persistence. Data from this study can inform targeted control strategies, including parity segregation, batch farrowing, maternal immunity enhancement, improved colostrum management, and hygiene protocols. Additionally, the findings support the potential refinement of Medicated Early Weaning (MEW) strategies, integrating antimicrobial use, hygiene improvements, and dam-focused interventions to reduce DASS prevalence. The novel qPCR assays offer a reliable, culture-independent surveillance tool for DASS detection, enabling veterinarians to develop evidence-based programs for early detection of, and to mitigate the impact of DASS in swine herds.