Fluke risk high in western Scotland and South Wales
Farms in western Scotland and South Wales are at high risk of acute fluke infection this month, according to the latest Nadis parasite forecast.
European veterinary specialist in parasitology Professor Mike Taylor believes the wetter weather seen in all regions could result in greater incidence of liver fluke disease later this year.
“The weather conditions seen over the past few months are likely to lead to increased numbers of worm larvae on pasture and increased risk of parasitic gastroenteritis.
“Above-average summer rainfall also increases the risk of liver fluke disease,” he adds.
See also: A guide to effective wormer use to reduce resistance risk
A new, local fluke forecasting tool has also been developed.
Forecasts for acute fluke using this system predict that areas of Scotland and North Wales are at high risk of acute fluke this year. The prediction is based on weather data from August through to October as well as May and June this year and it estimates the potential for the winter infection of snails. When this occurs it can lead to an earlier appearance of fluke infection.
Prof Taylor warns it is likely that sheep will need to be treated during October on farms in these high-risk regions, especially where there is a history of the disease.
Treatment for immature fluke
Triclabendazole is effective against young, immature fluke.
However, farmers are being advised to seek advice from vets and suitably qualified persons if triclabendazole resistance is likely.
“Later fluke treatments should aim to use products containing either closantel or nitroxynil, especially where triclabendazole resistance has either been confirmed or is suspected on farms,” says Prof Taylor.
Parasitic gastroenteritis
The larvae challenge means PGE is likely to be a problem on contaminated grazing in many areas, too.
Farmers are being urged to monitor liveweight gains or worm egg counts to determine the need for treatment as heavy infestations of round worms can cause black scour and rapid weight loss.
Reminders for treatments
- Weigh a representative sample of sheep and drench according to average bodyweight. DO NOT drench based on the heaviest animal in the group as toxicity is possible.
- DO NOT worm all ewes pre-tupping as this can cause anthelmintic resistance.
- Instead, only lean ewes, gimmers or those with dags should be targeted for worming and the total number of treated sheep should not exceed 5% of the group.