Early start for Barber’s Pole worm in the North West

Veterinarians in the North West Livestock Health and Pest Authority are urging sheep producers in the district to implement drenching strategies to prevent Barber’s Pole worm, following confirmed infections and several deaths.

Worm testing of flocks in the plains and nearby slopes of the North West LHPA has uncovered unusually high egg counts.

Shaun Slattery, North West LHPA senior district veterinarian, says it’s a major concern that Barber’s Pole has been causing problems this early.

"In the last 20 years, the earliest that I have seen sheep with clinical signs of Barber’s Pole worm was at Christmas. This year we are also seeing the problems in the western parts of the North West LHPA where it’s usually rare," said Mr Slattery.

Mr Slattery believes the cause of the early worms can be attributed to the floods early in 2010 and a wet and mild winter and spring this year. 

"With a wet forecast ahead, Barber’s Pole is shaping up to be a major disease issue for sheep producers in the North West LHPA," Mr Slattery said.

To prevent further 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.

"We are predicting the areas around and west of Narrabri, Walgett, Moree, Mungindi and Goondiwindi to be hotspots for Barber’s Pole worm over the coming months," he said.

Mr Slattery reminded producers to use good drenching practices and dose to the heaviest sheep in the mob. Producers should also consider which drench will be most effective for their individual situation. 

For more advice contact your local office of the North West LHPA.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378