Liver fluke disease warning
From the second half of June, conditions became favourable in many parts of the country for the survival of the parasite.
An analysis of meteorological data has been carried out by the Research and Applications Division of Met Eireann using a disease forecasting model.
It suggests that liver fluke will continue to be a serious disease problem in cattle and sheep during autumn and winter in all areas of the country with the possible exception of parts of the south-east.
Minister of State John Browne said the Liver Fluke Advisory Group has advised that farmers in risk areas should treat sheep immediately.
Farmers in low risk areas should consult their veterinary surgeon and submit faecal samples to the local regional veterinary laboratory for diagnosis before commencing treatments.
Mr Browne advised farmers in risk areas that young cattle should be dosed immediately and again after housing.
Older cattle need only receive treatment after housing. The timing of treatment after housing depends on the flukicide product being used.
Cattle being kept on pasture for the winter should be treated immediately and this should be repeated at regular intervals according to veterinary advice.
Mr Browne said treatment of dairy cows for liver fluke should be carried out during the drying off period and not during lactation.
All bought-in cattle and sheep should be quarantined and treated for liver fluke before joining the main herd or flock.
