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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 10th November 2023
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Testing guidance reissued after wormer resistance reports
“The best approach to prevent wormer resistance is to evaluate and implement improved pasture management” – Prof Jacqui Matthews.
Treatment failure reported for praziquantel and pyrantel.

Following reports that equine tapeworm drugs may be losing efficacy, Austin Davis Biologics (ABD) has reissued its guidance on the use of EQuiSal salvia testing for informing tapeworm control.

A recently published study from the Department of Veterinary Science at the University of Kentucky found evidence of treatment failure of praziquantel and pyrantel, the only two drugs licensed in the UK for tapeworm control in horses.

Responding to this development, ABD is emphasising that owners should not repeatedly test and treat for tapeworm without evaluating management, as this could lead to resistance.

Professor Jacqui Matthews, director of veterinary science at ADB, said: “In horses that report with a borderline or moderate/high saliva score, their management should be evaluated to determine what improvements could be made to help prevent tapeworm reinfection from the pasture.

“As part of this evaluation, a follow up test can be performed three months after treatment to provide information on whether or not reinfection is occurring.”

In cases when horses test positive in the follow up test, Prof Matthews said: “Improvements in pasture management should be undertaken, and/or a tapeworm treatment considered where appropriate, to prevent further grazing contamination with tapeworm eggs.

“All co-grazing horses should be tested at the same time in case they act as a continued source of tapeworm eggs. The best approach to prevent wormer resistance is to evaluate and implement improved pasture management to move to a situation where recurring reinfection is considerably reduced.”

ABD suggests that when saliva scores stay high despite taking the suggested measures, anthelmintic resistance should be considered a possibility. In such cases, the company recommends that owners seek advice from their veterinary surgeon.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.