SCOPS podcast returns for third season
Haemonchus parasites can cause the potentially deadly disease Haemonchosis.
The Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) group has launched the third season of the SCOPS podcast.
Episode one of the third season discusses the blood-feeding parasite Haemonchus contortus, also known as Barber’s Pole Worm.
The H. contortus has the capability to take large quantities of blood from their host. A sheep with 5,000 H. contortus could lose 250ml of blood per day.
As few as 500 adult worms can lead to rapid anaemia, causing an acute disease that can result in death.
The disease, Haemonchosis, can occur in both adult and young sheep. This can lead to reduced milk production in lactating ewes, and knock-on consequences for lambs.
It has been reported as a cause of death in some ewes, which is likely due to overwintered larvae emerging in the animal or in pasture.
Although H. contortus currently affects a minority of farms, an increase in cases is causing concern among the sheep sector.
SCOPS’ latest podcast episode will seek to raise awareness of the parasite, providing practical advice for farmers and advisors. Two farmers who have seen haemonchosis, the disease caused by the parasite, will share how they identified the issue, its impact and the steps they take to manage it.
Kaz Strycharczyk, a farm veterinary surgeon who is featuring in the episode, said: “I was really keen to be involved in this episode to help disseminate key information about this parasite, we don’t want people to panic. It’s about awareness, not alarm.”
Nerys Wright, technical advisor for SCOPS, said: “We’re really pleased to be launching season 3 with topics that are timely and relevant to the industry. Haemonchus is a great example of something that is increasingly on people’s radar. This season is all about sharing real experiences and practical advice.”
All episodes can be found on the SCOPS website.
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