Worm Control in Livestock: Bringing Science to the Field. Issue 9 (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kenyon, Fiona; Hutchings, Fiona; Morgan-Davies, Claire; van Dijk, Jan; Bartley, Dave J.
• Is Part Of: Trends in parasitology. Volume 33:Issue 9(2017:Sep.)
• Page Start: 669
• Page End: 677
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: gastrointestinal nematodes -- worms -- anthelmintic resistance -- best practice; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Parasitology; Biology; Parasitologie -- Périodiques; Online resources; 571.999
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.05.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4922

Abstract

Abstract : Parasitic roundworm infections are ubiquitous in grazing livestock. Chemical control through the frequent 'blanket' administration of anthelmintics (wormers) has been, and remains, the cornerstone in controlling these infections, but this practice is unsustainable. Alternative strategies are available but, even with the plethora of best practice advice available, have yet to be integrated into routine farming practice. This is probably due to a range of factors, including contradictory advice from different sources, changes to advice following increased scientific understanding, and top-down knowledge exchange patterns. In this article, we discuss the worm control options available, the translation of new best practice advice from science bench to field, and ideas for future work and directions. Trends: Sustainable worm control relies on wormer treatment strategies that leave a proportion of the worm population unexposed to drugs, thereby maintaining the genes for susceptibility within the worm population. These strategies, although well supported scientifically, have not been readily used by the farming community. Sustainable worm control can bring a real financial benefit to farmers and could improve overall farm sustainability. Many sources of information regarding worm control are currently available, but many of them have subtle differences, meaning farmers/vets/advisors can obtain mixed messages about best practice. Scientists/advisors need to adopt a wide range of media and formats, as well as perhaps engaging in social science disciplines, to fully engage farmers and promote advice.