Strategic control of gastrointestinal nematode and lungworm infections with eprinomectin at turnout and eight weeks later.

The study focuses on the strategic application of eprinomectin, a deworming agent, in controlling gastrointestinal nematode and lungworm infections among grazing cattle, observing significant reduction in infection levels after two treatments given eight weeks apart as compared to untreated controls.

Research Participants and Methodology

• The researchers utilized two groups of 10 first-year grazing cattle each in the study. The first group was left untreated and served as the control group, while the second group received a topical application of the deworming agent eprinomectin.
• This treatment was administered twice – once at the commencement of the grazing season (also known as turnout), and the second time eight weeks later.

Results and Findings

• Throughout the grazing season, the untreated control group developed a mild infection of gastrointestinal nematodes and lungworms.
• In contrast, the group that was treated with eprinomectin maintained a healthy state, not showing signs of these infestations.
• The eight-week interval between the two rounds of treatment allowed for the establishment of adult worms in the treated cattle, but the egg count of these parasites remained insignificant.
• Overall, the study revealed that the total number of eggs produced by the parasites in the treated cattle during the entire grazing season was considerably lower than in the control or untreated group.

Implications of the Study

• The findings of this study underscore the strategic and effective use of eprinomectin in controlling worm infections in cattle. This treatment approach could help maintain the overall health of grazing cattle and mitigate the impact of nematode and lungworm infestations.
• By treating at the start of the grazing season and again eight weeks later, farmers may strategically minimize worm populations in cattle herds and lower the spread of parasite eggs in the grazing environment, which could potentially curb future infections.