Online vet course launched on haemonchosis
The course offers a detailed explanation of the FAMACHA system.
The University of Edinburgh has shared an online training course that will focus on Haemonchus contortus and its sustainable control in sheep flocks.
The course, created in collaboration with the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS), has been launched ahead of the peak parasite risk period to give practical, evidence-based advice.
Led by Rob Kelly, clinical lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, will explain the biology and epidemiology of Haemonchus contortus, as well as how it differs from other roundworms. Veterinary surgeons will learn how to recognise and manage risk on a farm, drawing together parasite control principles from SCOPS.
A key part of the course will provide detailed guidance on the use of the FAMACHA© system.
FAMACHA© is a laminated colour card system which is predominantly used in targeted treatment programmes for Haemonchus contortus. It is becoming more widely used in the UK, and so SCOPS says training is needed to support correct and responsible use.
Veterinary surgeons will learn why FAMACHA© cards are not openly available, but must never be photocopied. This is because the colour shades are carefully selected and calibrated for the system.
Cards must therefore be issued by veterinary practices, meaning any cards requested will be posted directly to the learner’s nominated vet rather than to individuals.
Phillipa Page, president of the Sheep Veterinary Society, has contributed to the course. She said: “This is a really timely and well structured resource. Haemonchus continues to be an important parasite to recognise early, but it’s equally important we don’t assume it will be a problem everywhere, every year.
“I would strongly encourage vets who do any sheep work to take part in the course before the season gets underway, so they are fully equipped to support farmers with evidence based advice.”
SCOPS is encouraging veterinary surgeons to take part in the training ahead of the wider release. SQPs and farmers will be able to access the course from 29 June.
The course is expected to take one to two hours to complete. It can be accessed here.
Image © Francesca Leslie/Shutterstock
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