Producers are being warned to be vigilant, as there is an increased risk of liver fluke following wet conditions continuing through this summer.

Concerns for livestock came as damp conditions continue across much of Great Britain and worry that these conditions could aid the size of the fluke population as we go into autumn.

A recent NADIS forecast shows areas at particular high risk such as western England, Wales, the Midlands and most of Scotland, where there is a risk of a very high prevalence of disease.

Areas with two or more consecutive wet summers are reckoned to be at the highest risk as this is where the disease is more prevalent however these areas are only predictions so far and a dry autumn could certainly reduce the risk significantly.

The latest report, out today (20 August), stresses the need for Farm Health plans to be devised in conjunction with a vet to reduce what is a potentially devastating disease.

Taking into consideration animal history, topography and location are just some of the factors which should be considered to establish the best method of prevention.

Farms with a known fluke population should be treating sheep in autumn, traditionally in October, althoughin wet years such as this, it could pay to bring this forward to late August or September, with a second dose 4-6 weeks later.

“Triclabendazole is generally the drug of choice as it is effective against very young immature fluke, although there are there are increasing reports of suspected resistance. The effectiveness of fluke treatments should be monitored and strategies using alternative products may be needed,” the forecast said.

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