Abstract
Background: Streptococcus suis is recognized globally as an important zoonotic re/emerging swine pathogen of concern. However, locally situated knowledge regarding this pathogen is severely lacking. Methods: In this study, 664 local smallhold swine farms across nine provinces in the Philippines and their management practices were characterized in relation to the presence of S. suis. The significant determinants of the presence of S. suis were identified by performing binary logistic regression analysis. Results: The pen density (odds ratio [OR] = 1.34), the number of sows (OR = 1.30) and boars (OR = 3.15) on the farm, the use of mixed feed sources (OR = 3.16), and the occurrence of pig death within six months prior to sampling (OR = 3.28) were associated with increased likelihood of S. suis detection. Showers or hand washing areas (OR = 0.33) and the use of in-feed medication (OR = 0.52) were associated with reduced likelihood of S. suis detection. Furthermore, the number of sows on the farm (OR = 1.50) and the farrow- to- finish type of farm operation (OR = 2.06) were associated with increased likelihood of detection of human disease-associated S. suis serotypes, while the use of cages/pens was associated with a reduced likelihood of detection of these serotypes (OR = 0.42). Conclusions: These findings may potentiate science-based risk assessment and disease prevention strategies for S. suis infections.

Keywords: farm management, risk factors, Streptococcus suis