Lungworm Vigilance

Autumn is a key time for symptoms of lungworm also known as husk or parasitic bronchitis to become apparent. Typically the parasite becomes an issue in late summer through to November with peaks of diagnosed cases in September and October.

A number of farmers recently have mentioned cattle coughing while out at grass which raises the suspicion of lungworm. Recent wetter spells of weather may also contribute to a spread in the parasite.

What To Look Out For

Some of the early clinical signs of lungworm include;

• Noticeable frequent coughing
• Increase in respiratory rate and effort
• Tiring easily
• Loss of condition
• Reduced milk yields in adult cows

Sarah Balfour, sarah.balfour@sac.co.uk