Lungworm challenge set for above average levels

Weather conditions this spring are proving a challenge for many reasons, but are also proving to be ideal for lungworm larvae on the pasture leading to a potentially high level of threat of infestation as cattle are turned out. Unvaccinated animals grazing heavily contaminated pasture could easily succumb to husk.

March this year was very cold, with average temperatures typically lower than those of December, January and February. However it wasn't cold enough to kill off lungworm larvae surviving on pasture which, combined with double the average rainfall for the month in some areas, could result in a high level of challenge. Although April was dry, moderate temperatures will have assisted survival of larvae and high rainfall remains a feature of the forecast for the rest of May*. Lungworm larvae thrive in warm and moist conditions and will be present in large numbers.

"A late turnout combined with high challenge levels could see many herds with husk outbreaks," warns Intervet veterinary adviser, Robert Ankcorn. "If youngstock do not receive two doses of Huskvac in advance of turnout, then they will not be protected. Already, farmers and vets alike are contacting Intervet to discuss when to vaccinate, bearing in mind the late season. Our advice remains to work with your vet, but plan two Huskvac doses, four weeks apart with the final dose two weeks prior to turnout."