Don't Let Liver Flukes Take a Bite Out of Bottom Line

GLOBAL - In today's market, every competitive edge makes a difference to a producer's bottom line. That’s why it is so important to control potentially harmful parasites in beef cattle and dairy heifers.
calendar icon 2 February 2012
clock icon 3 minute read

While all parasites pose a threat to profitability, liver fluke infestations have been identified as one of the top 10 beef quality issues. Although they were traditionally prevalent only in Gulf and Pacific Coast areas, liver flukes are now found in 26 states, largely due to the movement of both cattle and hay across state lines.2 Liver flukes are microscopic creatures present on vegetation, and are ingested by grazing cattle. Once ingested, the flukes can migrate from the intestine to the liver, potentially causing hemorrhage or blood loss.

In a National Beef Quality Audit conducted by Colorado State University, Oklahoma State University and Texas A&M University, 24.1 per cent of US cows and bulls suffered from liver fluke infestation at slaughter, leading to the condemnation of those livers and ultimately, significant financial loss. In Florida, for example, liver flukes are estimated to cost the beef industry $10 million each year. Specific estimates of financial impact to the entire industry are difficult to calculate. However, another report indicates that overall, inadequate parasite control programs can cost producers as much as $200 per head each grazing season.

In addition to the direct damage to the liver, there are hidden costs. Liver flukes can also lead to decreased weight in weaning calves and slower growth and reproductive development of heifers.

In the dairy industry, liver flukes can also take a toll on the herd, as they can cause as much as a 10 per cent decrease in milk production. Another challenge that can result from liver flukes is an infected animal's increased susceptibility to other diseases. "If cattle have parasites, health and development problems can be compounded," says Joe Dedrickson, DVM, Ph.D., Director, Field Veterinary Services, Merial. "When there is liver damage, the immune system is also compromised, diminishing an animal's ability to handle illness, medications or vaccines. Ultimately, it results in producers sacrificing profits."

The best way to help prevent liver flukes from impacting profitability is to maintain a sound parasite management program. Merial's IVOMEC® Plus (ivermectin/clorsulon) is one tool producers can use. IVOMEC Plus injection for cattle kills 37 types of internal and external parasites, all in a single dose. As a result of parasite control, IVOMEC Plus has reliable benefits such as improved weight gain, feed efficiency and conception rates.

"Parasitism is something that can be managed," says Dr Dedrickson. "I recommend all producers work closely with their veterinarians to establish a complete parasite control program, including IVOMECPlus, to control parasites, including liver flukes.

"Not all products kill liver flukes, so producers need to be sure they are carefully checking labels and consulting with their veterinarians," says Dr Dedrickson. "In today's economy, it is imperative producers have all the right tools available to keep their herds at optimum health."

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