Occurrence, isolation and serotyping of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae in cattle and pig slurry

In a survey on the occurrence of potential pathogenic bacteria in slurry, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (E. rh.) was found in samples from 49 % of 84 cattle herds, 44 % of 32 pig herds, and 39 % of 67 cattle and pig herds. Among E. rh. isolates from 81 of the herds, 16 different serotypes were distinguished, including 1 serotype not previously described, which was designated serotype 23.Procedures of isolation and serotyping are presented and discussed, and the serotype distribution within the different herd categories is outlined.