BARBER\u2019s pole infestations are causing sheep deaths in the south west of Victoria following warm weather and thunderstorms in November and December.<\/p>\n
Agriculture Victoria Senior Veterinary Officer Paul Beltz said this blood sucking stomach parasite thrives in warm, moist conditions where it can build up very quickly and result in the death of affected animals.<\/p>\n
\u201cBarber\u2019s pole worm is present on farms across Victoria but rarely causes disease as our climate doesn\u2019t normally favour it reproducing rapidly,\u201d Dr Beltz said.<\/p>\n
\u201cFemale Barber\u2019s pole worms lay large numbers of eggs, so a rapid population explosion is likely when weather conditions favour it, such as those that we are experiencing now. Sheep producers now checking their stock for flies should also be aware of the symptoms of a Barber\u2019s pole worm infestation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAffected sheep will be weak and have very pale eyelids and gums and this worm does not cause scouring and affected sheep will have firm pellets, in some instances, the first sign may be sheep dying.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr Beltz said there are a number of tests that can easily diagnose Barber\u2019s pole, such as a faecal egg count (FEC) or sheep necropsy. \u201cFortunately, in Victoria most drenches should control the disease,\u201d Dr Beltz said.<\/p>\n
More information about Barber\u2019s pole worm is available in the Agriculture Victoria Sheep Note available at go.vic.gov.au\/Uv20K1.<\/p>\n
For further information please contact your local veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria Veterinary or Animal Health Officer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BARBER\u2019s pole infestations are causing sheep deaths in the south west of Victoria following warm weather and thunderstorms in November and December. Agriculture Victoria Senior Veterinary Officer Paul Beltz said this blood sucking stomach parasite thrives in warm, moist conditions where it can build up very quickly and result in the death of affected animals. […]<\/p>\n