Isolation of Leptospira interrogans serovar bratislava from stillborn and weak pigs in Iowa

Leptospira interrogans serovar bratislava was isolated from a herd of swine in Iowa with a history of stillborn and weak neonatal pigs. Placentas, kidneys, and lungs of stillborn and weak pigs from 3 litters were processed to detect leptospires by use of bacteriologic culture and fluorescent antibody testing. Sera from stillborn and weak pigs were tested to detect agglutinating antibody against leptospires. A low antibody titer against L interrogans serovar bratislava was detected in the sera of stillborn and weak pigs. Small numbers of leptospires were sometimes detected in tissues by use of the fluorescent antibody test. Serovar bratislava was isolated from placentas, stillborn pigs or weak pigs from each of the 3 litters.