Barber’s Pole warning for the New England

Vets in the New England Livestock Health and Pest Authority are urging sheep producers to implement drenching strategies to prevent infestations of Barber’s Pole worm.

Worm testing of flocks across the New England LHPA district has uncovered a rapid increase in egg counts. There have also been several deaths in the western part of the authority district.

Steve Eastwood, New England LHPA senior district vet, says conditions have been ideal for worms to proliferate over spring.

"We have experienced a relatively mild winter and excellent rainfall during spring which has allowed any worms that are on pastures to survive. 

"In a normal season we’d expect Barber’s Pole to be at its peak during late December and early January. But we’re expecting the peak to be much earlier this year, probably in the next month.

"With a wet forecast ahead, Barber’s Pole is shaping up to be a major disease issue for all sheep producers," said Mr Eastwood.

To prevent deaths and reduced flock productivity, action is required now.

"Administer adult sheep a sustained action drench now and lambs at 12 weeks of age or at weaning time, whatever is earliest.

"Follow up by conducting a WormTest in late December to determine the effectiveness of the strategy and if further drenching is required," he said.

Mr Eastwood reminded producers to employ good drenching practices, which involves consideration of which drench will be most effective for each flock. 

For more advice contact your local office of the New England LHPA.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378