EN
Immunogenic effects of the oral inactivated E.coli vaccine given to 3-4-week-old piglets were studied. The vaccine consisting of E.coli strain 0149:K91, expressing the fimbrial colonization antigen F4ac supplemented with a toxoid (CTB) and CT was administered in two or three doses, respectively. The local gut antibody responses in fecal samples and in the intestinal mucosa were tested by ELISA. It was shown that the vaccine was both safe and immunogenic and induced strong antibody responses to the LPS, F4ac, and CTB protective antigens. The specific immunoglobulins were mainly of the IgA isotype and the highest ELISA titers were found on day 21 after immunization. The oral ETEC developed vaccine seems to be a good candidate for the specific protection of weaned piglets against E. coli diarrhea.