Development of a sanitary risk index for Salmonella seroprevalence in Belgian pig farms

The aim of this study was to develop a scientifically based Sanitary Risk Index (SRI), defined as an objective measure of the Salmonella seroprevalence in a pig herd based on the risk factors being present on the farm. Therefore, an observational epidemiological study was adopted to infer risk factors for the Salmonella seroprevalence of market pigs. A total of 204 Belgian farrow-to-finish pig herds were included in this cross-sectional study. The antibody titre to Salmonella in sera was analysed by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for an average of 58 finisher pigs on each farm. A detailed questionnaire, covering an extensive range of potential risk factors was completed by each participating pig producer. Pearson correlation coefficients between the average sample to positive ratio (S/P)-value of a herd and the within-herd proportion of seropositive pigs were high. Significant risk factors associated with the average S/P-value of a herd were identified by a general linear mixed model. Feeding of meal, providing wet feed, having a hygienic-lock facility, using boot baths, applying the strict all in/all out procedure, programming the temperature in the zone of thermal neutrality and disinfecting between batches were all associated with lower average S/P-values. Sampling in summer, using a clean downtime, decreasing floor space per animal as well as increasing herd size were related with higher average S/P-values. The SRI consists of the above-specified risk factors together with their relative weight. Determining the Salmonella risk of a new herd by the SRI is primarily based on the quantification of the farm specific risk factors present and results in an average S/P-value of the herd. The model was validated using a set of conventional farms. In conclusion, the SRI is a useful preliminary screening tool which forms the basis for targeted sampling but cannot replace the serological herd classification with regard to Salmonella prevalence.