The liver fluke season is anticipated to be more extended this year, as per an independent sheep consultant in the United Kingdom (UK).
Sheep and cattle in some regions of the UK may confront an earlier risk of acute liver fluke this winter, with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) already reporting cases.
Nerys Wright, an independent sheep consultant, highlighted that the persistent wet weather this year has led to the emergence of acute fluke cases in specific areas.
This situation underscores the importance for farmers to regularly monitor for fluke to evaluate the specific risk to their farms.
With this year’s fluke season projected to be longer and the risk varying compared to previous years due to the weather, monitoring for clinical signs like poor performance and weight loss, as well as testing, becomes even more critical.
Sheep do not build immunity to fluke, and no treatment offers a persistent effect, emphasising the essential nature of managing fluke risk on affected farms.
The timely identification of fluke risk is crucial to prevent unnecessary treatments, production losses, or fatalities on farms.
But how can farmers effectively test for and manage fluke risk on their farms?
Wright suggests several testing options for fluke, including:
– Post mortem: Having a vet examine the livers and bile ducts of deceased ewes or lambs for evidence of acute or historical fluke.
– Blood antibody ELISA test: Determining whether a sheep has been exposed to liver fluke, particularly effective for first-grazing season animals.
– Coproantigen ELISA test: Conducted on dung samples in late autumn/winter to detect mid- to late-stage infections.
– Faecal fluke egg count: Detecting liver fluke only when egg-laying adults are present.
– Abattoir feedback: Requesting feedback on the livers of lambs or cull ewes sent for slaughter to understand historic infections.
Engaging with a vet or animal health advisor who is familiar with the farm’s conditions is crucial for selecting appropriate testing and treatment options.
When fluke risk is identified, the choice of treatment depends on factors like the level of fluke challenge, time of year, product efficacy, and farm management practices.
Moreover, Patricia van Veen, a Zoetis vet, mentions that the choice of treatment hinges on whether the disease risk is attributed to adult fluke, immature, or early immature fluke migrating through the liver.
Understanding the varying efficacy of flukicides for different stages of fluke is vital, as it enables farmers to select the most suitable treatment option while mitigating production losses in autumn.
In addition to treatments, managing ongoing risk by avoiding high-fluke risk fields or areas within fields is essential to reduce the impact of acute fluke on livestock.
The liver fluke season is a time of heightened vigilance for farmers, requiring proactive monitoring, testing, and strategic management to safeguard the health and productivity of sheep and cattle.
As the weather conditions continue to influence the prevalence of liver fluke, farmers must stay informed, consult with experts, and implement effective control measures on their farms to combat this significant health threat.
Don’t wait until your livestock show signs of fluke infestation – take proactive steps now to protect their well-being and ensure a successful farming season.
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Do you have any questions or experiences to share regarding liver fluke management on your farm? Feel free to leave a comment below to start a conversation and exchange knowledge with our farming community. Let’s work together to enhance livestock health and welfare across Australian farms.
Remember, a little prevention today can save you a lot of trouble tomorrow. Stay proactive, stay informed, and keep your livestock healthy and thriving.
