Application of Needle-Free Vaccination in Piglets

One of the most common barriers we see in human medicine is a fear of needles, and this is mainly related to the experience of pain. Needles are routinely used in livestock production as the main route to deliver vaccines and consideration should be made towards the pain induced to livestock. Livestock production is essential to meet the growing increase of the human population with pork being the second most consumed meat product globally. The importance of disease prevention has been stated, however, the welfare of livestock is at the forefront for consumers and stakeholders. Research to enhance and promote positive welfare practices is crucial to improve animal health and welfare. Currently, vaccination is associated with stress and pain for piglets and is an area that needs addressing to reach welfare goals. This case study will refer to a recently published study comparing piglets vaccinated either intramuscularly or intradermally via a needle-free device. Physical parameters and behavioural responses were measured as indicators of welfare. This case study demonstrated no negative response from piglets vaccinated using a needle-free device and an opportunity to improve piglet welfare.