The company is also pleased that, through this sponsorship, they are able to help the scientific community circulate new information on the role spirochaetes play in diseases affecting other species, humans included.

Papers were presented on various subjects. Some of these include:

• Isolation and diagnostic techniques for Brachyspira species;
• Prevalence of Brachyspira within swine herds in Argentina and Japan;
• Pathogenicity of different Brachyspira species in swine;
• The role of insects as disease vectors in swine dysentery;
• Approaches to management, control and eradication of swine dysentery and
• New information on the detection, prevalence and impact of Brachyspira species on poultry production.

The poultry sector contained some interesting new information on Avian Intestinal Spirochaetosis (AIS) - a recent indication for the use of Denagard®. Denagard has been proven to be highly successful in maintenance of productivity in laying flocks affected by AIS.

The conference, which is organised every two years, provides an informal setting that allows free exchange of ideas and discussion of new concepts among the participants. It also facilitates the planning of future collaborations among researchers and possible cooperative efforts with Novartis Animal Health.

In recognition of the fact that many interested individuals and organisations did not have the opportunity to attend, Novartis Animal Health is pleased to publish and distribute the proceedings for reference. For an electronic copy of the proceedings, please click here.