Enteropathogenic Yersinia in the Pork Production Chain: Challenges for Control

Abstract

Enteropathogenic Yersinia comprising pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, are zoonotic pathogens causing foodborne intestinal illness in humans. Y. enterocolitica is common in pork production and pork is associated with infections in humans. Therefore, there is a need to reduce the occurrence and spread of these pathogens within the pork production chain. It would be most effective to control enteropathogenic Yersinia at the farm level. However, at present, feasible intervention methods are lacking and more research is needed. The most effective way to prevent the spread of Y. enterocolitica is to buy piglets from Y. enterocolitica-negative farms. At slaughterhouses, the occurrence of enteropathogenic Yersinia can be reduced but not completely removed by slaughter hygiene and changing slaughter methods. After slaughter, it is difficult to control enteropathogenic Yersinia, since they can survive and even multiply during cold storage and under modified atmosphere. In addition, current knowledge and actions in both domestic and professional kitchens are insufficient for the prevention of yersiniosis. The significance of Y. pseudotuberculosis carried by pigs is uncertain. Although data are still lacking for pathogenic Y. enterocolitica in many aspects, there is even a greater lack of information regarding Y. pseudotuberculosis in pork production. There is a definite need for further research on these pathogens.

Yersinia enterocolitica, a Neglected Cause of Human Enteric Infections in Côte d’Ivoire

“…Pigs are regarded as the major reservoir of enteropathogenic Y . enterocolitica in most countries worldwide [56]. Although these animals were also found to be carriers of Yersinia in the Abidjan district, none of the other cattle sampled within these farms and of the rodents captured in the vicinity of the farms were found infected with Y .…”

Prevalence and Dynamics of PathogenicYersinia enterocolitica4/O:3 Among Finnish Piglets, Fattening Pigs, and Sows

“…Pigs are symptomless carriers of enteropathogenic Yersinia, especially Y. enterocolitica, but the prevalence is variable depending on factors such as age, sampling and detection methodology, farm management, and biosecurity level (reviewed by Laukkanen-Ninios et al, 2014). Despite some geographical variation, bioserotype 4/O:3 is the type most frequently isolated in pigs (Laukkanen-Ninios et al, 2014). Newborn piglets are negative for Y. enterocolitica.…”

Examination of the hygienic status of selected organic enrichment materials used in pig farming with special emphasis on pathogenic bacteria

“…enterocolitica [16]. Despite numerous studies on the subject, the infection source and farm environment impact, especially from living or inanimate vectors, remain unclear [16].…”

“…enterocolitica [16]. Despite numerous studies on the subject, the infection source and farm environment impact, especially from living or inanimate vectors, remain unclear [16]. It is controversial whether the absence or sparse use of bedding material [17] or the presence of bedding material [18] is a risk factor for the prevalence of pathogenic Y. enterocolitica and antibodies to Y. enterocolitica in pigs.…”