Relaunch for OP scab products
20 October 2000
Relaunch for OP scab products
CHOICE of control for sheep scab and lice will dramatically improve after next weeks relaunch of two OP dip products after almost a year off the market.
But careful attention to health and safety is required to minimise risk to flockmasters.
The products, Coopers All Seasons Fly and Scab Dip, and Paracide Plus, made by Schering Plough and Battle, Hayward and Bower, respectively, will return to the market from next week after authorisation from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
Health and welfare of hill sheep, in particular, will improve as a result of the decision, says sheep vet Chris Lewis. "I am thrilled to bits by this decision, it represents a wonderful example of co-operation between the industry, Veterinary Products Committee and government, and is based on sound science.
"As build up of resistance to OPs is slow, this will delay the day that we see general resistance of scab and lice to treatment. It will also take the pressure off SP and injectable products, slowing resistance to them."
For these products to return to the market, they must be supplied with two pairs of protective gloves, an A4 laminated sheet of safety instructions and a vented tap on the container to minimise splashing.
But further work is underway to develop a new dispensing system to minimise operator contact with concentrate dip, a requirement if current licences are to be extended beyond Aug 2001, says Chris Kent, commercial manager of Battle, Hayward and Bower.
"The licence to sell and use OP products runs out at the end of August next year. MAFF will decide on their future after this date."
While keen to see development of a safer dispensing mechanism for OP dips, careful washing of protective clothing and good personal hygiene will minimise risk, advises Neil Craig of the Health and Safety Executive.
"Avoid getting dip concentrate on protective clothing, but if it does, wash it off with clean water immediately. Also wash protective clothing regularly during dipping and take care not to touch contaminated surfaces of clothing when removing it. Finally, wash yourself thoroughly after dipping." *