Where we are with wormer resistance

A series of meetings have been arranged to discuss the important new findings on the levels of anthelmintic resistance on farms in Wales.

Overseen by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), a project is underway to look at the effectiveness of wormers for eliminating parasitic diseases in sheep.

Early results from a sample of 25 farms have revealed that resistance to wormers is increasing. Theseinclude wormer treatments that were previously considered effective at eradicating parasites in sheep.

The findings of this work will be discussed in greater detail during five meetings at Lampeter, Aberystwyth, Brecon, Welshpool and Llanrwst. 

“Anthelmintic resistance means that a wormer loses effectiveness because a proportion of the worms survive treatment,” said Lynfa Davies, Technical Development Executive at HCC. “This is an important issue and will affect the sustainability of the sheep industry in Wales if not taken seriously.

“Knowing whether wormers are working effectively on your farm can be checked by undertaking a simple test with your vet. Using the correct treatments will increase productivity and save you money.”

Eurion Thomas from Techion is carrying out the research on behalf of HCC. He will present the results in greater detail during the meetings.

A number of vets across Wales have been involved in this work from the outset, and they will use their local knowledge to refer to case studies from across the country.

Neil Paton MRVS from the Welsh Regional Veterinary Centre will also provide an update on his recent work on a common parasitic disease, liver fluke.

Meetings have been scheduled for the following dates:

Tuesday 28 April 2015             6.00pm  -   Lampeter Rugby Club, SA48 7JA

Wednesday 29 April 2015        2.00pm  -   Conrah Hotel, Aberystwyth, SY23 4DF

Tuesday 5 May 2015              6.00pm  -   Castle Hotel, Brecon, LD3 9DB

Wednesday 6 May 2015         2.00pm  -   Welshpool Livestock Market, SY21 8SR

Wednesday 13 May 2015        2.00pm  -   Eagles Hotel Llanrwst, LL26 0LG

Anyone interested in attending will need to register for the events by phoning HCC on 01970 625050, texting their name and event venue to 07970 907229 or sending an email to info@hccmpw.org.uk.

The project runs until June 2015 is funded by the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-13.