FINAL assessments from the National Animal Disease Information Service have confirmed that the overall risk of liver fluke is low in the UK, with the exception of south-west Scotland which has been classified as ‘medium’.

The forecast is based on rainfall and temperature data from May to October 2018, but local conditions may still allow fluke and its intermediate host, the mud snail Galba truncatula, to develop to levels that pose a threat to cattle and sheep – a threat supported by the continued detection of fluke at abattoirs.

“Farmers need to be vigilant looking for signs of fluke infection and have contingency plans in place to deal with any outbreak,” said Boehringer Ingelheim ruminant technical manager, Sioned Timothy. “Fluke can affect both sheep and cattle, but sheep are at greater risk of the severe clinical disease associated with heavy infections of migrating juvenile larvae. Furthermore, where pasture is grazed by both species, cross infection can occur.”

Cattle with chronic infections, associated with the presence of mature fluke in the bile ducts of the liver, may show no obvious signs, but fertility and productivity may both be impaired. As fluke risk is highest on damp, muddy pasture, farmers with out-wintered stock should choose pastures with care, said Ms Timothy, who recommended that stock be monitored for signs of infection. Where animals have been at risk grazing wet pastures, body condition scoring and diagnostic testing of faecal samples can provide an assessment of whether treatment is warranted.

“Routine clostridial vaccination can help prevent Black disease and should be considered if not already in place. If in doubt, farmers should consult their vet who can provide guidance of the full range of diagnostic and, if necessary, treatment options,” said Ms Timothy.

"Where acute fluke infection is found in sheep, treatment with triclabendazole is recommended. This is the only product effective against immature stages of the parasite which cause the most damage and production loss in sheep."