The epidemiology of Ascaris suum infections in pigs in Northern Ireland, 1969-1991.

This paper presents the results of analysis of condemnations of pig livers due to cirrhosis which, in temperature climates, gives an accurate estimation of Ascaris suum infections. Over the 23 years analysed, a very highly significant upward trend in the prevalence of A. suum is demonstrated. The association between the prevalence and the mean air temperature over the early summer period is highlighted. Thorough cleansing of pig units in early spring and at various times during the summer are suggested as the most appropriate control measure.