Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive bacterium of great sanitary importance in swine production, associated with conditions such as meningitis, septicemia, pneumonia, arthritis, and endocarditis, in addition to being a significant zoonotic pathogen. Among the main virulence factors of S. suis, the MRP protein (Muramidase-Released Protein) stands out, as it is widely used as an epidemiological and virulence marker.
The MRP protein is expressed by certain strains of Streptococcus suis and is related to the bacterium’s ability to invade tissues, survive the host’s immune response, and cause systemic infections. MRP-positive strains are frequently associated with more severe clinical conditions, especially in piglets during the nursery and growing phases.
The transmission of Streptococcus suis occurs primarily through direct contact between animals via respiratory, oral, and nasal secretions, as well as skin wounds. The agent may be present in asymptomatic carriers, which act as important reservoirs and sources of infection within herds.
The impacts of S. suis infection include increased mortality, reduced zootechnical performance, high costs for antimicrobial treatments, and significant economic losses. Furthermore, the zoonotic potential of the agent represents an occupational risk for workers in the swine production chain, slaughterhouses, and health professionals.
Prevention and control are based on good management practices, improvement of sanitary conditions, reduction of stress factors, control of secondary infections, and the adoption of biosecurity measures. Laboratory identification of MRP-positive strains through molecular and serological methods contributes to epidemiological characterization and the definition of more effective sanitary strategies.
Continuous epidemiological surveillance, combined with precise laboratory diagnosis, is fundamental for monitoring the circulation of virulent strains of Streptococcus suis in herds, aiding in the prevention of outbreaks, the protection of animal health, and the mitigation of public health risks.
In this context, the Bioperfectus Streptococcus suis (MRP) rapid test represents a practical screening tool to support sanitary surveillance in swine herds. The application of the rapid test enables the agile identification of MRP-positive strains directly in the field or in routine laboratory settings, aiding in immediate decision-making, such as animal segregation, management adjustments, treatment guidance, and the adoption of biosecurity measures. In this way, the rapid test complements conventional laboratory methods, contributing to the early detection of more virulent strains, the reduction in the occurrence of clinical outbreaks, and the strengthening of control strategies for Streptococcus suis, with positive impacts on both animal health and public health.
