While rainfall over the winter of 2016-17 was relatively low, the rainfall pattern in June/July 2017 was higher than normal in parts of Scotland, Wales, North and South West England. Rainfall was lower in August (see Met Office map) but because of the wet weather earlier in the summer, there is a greater risk of fluke in these areas.
NADIS is indicating the following this autumn:
- Western Scotland and South Wales – potential for a "high-risk" of fluke infection.
- Eastern Scotland, North West England, South West England, and North Wales – potential for a "medium-risk" of fluke infection.
- Central and eastern regions of England – currently forecast to be at "low-risk".
The situation may change depending on rainfall during September and October.
Currently there are cases of acute fluke in sheep being confirmed in Cheshire during September.
Read the liver fluke forecast here
Livestock farmers are urged to:
- Check the fluke forecast for their area.
- Investigate any sudden deaths in sheep.
- Discuss testing (see below) and treatment options with their vet or animal health adviser.
- Where possible use management to reduce fluke risk, for example, remove sheep/cattle from the wettest fields or house early.
- Ask their abattoir for feedback on liver condition.
- Discuss quarantine protocols for new or returning animals with their vet.
Read the full parasite forecast here