Teschen disease: how to spot and report it
How to spot Teschen disease, what to do if you suspect it and measures to prevent it.
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
Teschen disease affects pigs.
It doesn’t affect humans.
There have been no outbreaks of Teschen disease in western Europe since 1980. A less severe form of the disease called Talfan has occurred in Great Britain.
Teschen disease is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect it you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
How to spot Teschen disease
The disease can affect pigs of all ages.
The early clinical signs are:
- fever
- loss of appetite
- lack of energy
- lack of co-ordination
Affected pigs may also:
- grind their teeth
- suffer convulsions
- lose their voice
- smack their lips
- suffer paralysis
The disease affects pigs suddenly. Many lose the ability to move and may die within 3 or 4 days. It is often fatal, though mildly affected animals may survive.
How Teschen disease is spread
Teschen disease is spread by:
- contact with infected pigs or their faeces
- contact with anything that’s contaminated, eg equipment, vehicles or people
Preventing and controlling Teschen disease
You can help to prevent Teschen disease by practising strict biosecurity on your premises.
If you report suspicion of Teschen disease, APHA vets will investigate.
If Teschen disease is confirmed, the outbreak will be controlled in line with the contingency plan for exotic notifiable diseases.
Further information on prevention and control
What happens when a notifiable disease is suspected or confirmed
Legislation relating to Teschen disease
The main domestic legislation on Teschen disease is the Teschen Disease Order 1974.
Further information on prevention and control
What happens when a notifiable disease is suspected or confirmed
Updates to this page
Last updated 18 October 2018 + show all updates
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Contact details for reporting a notifiable disease updated.
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AHVLA documents have been re-assigned to the new Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
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First published.