1
|
Oehm AW, Zablotski Y, Hoedemaker M, Campe A, Strube C, Jordan D, Springer A, Klawitter M, Knubben-Schweizer G. Associations of production characteristics with the on-farm presence of Fasciola hepatica in dairy cows vary across production levels and indicate differences between breeds. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294601. [PMID: 37976265 PMCID: PMC10656002 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fasciola hepatica is one of the economically most important endoparasites in cattle production. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the relevance of production level on the associations of on-farm presence of F. hepatica with farm-level milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein in Holstein cows, a specialised dairy breed, and in Simmental cows, a dual purpose breed. Furthermore, we investigated whether differential associations were present depending on breed. Data from 560 dairy farms across Germany housing 93,672 cows were analysed. The presence of F. hepatica antibodies was determined via ELISA on bulk tank milk samples. Quantile regression was applied to model the median difference in milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein depending on the interaction of breed and fluke occurrence. Whereas a reduction in milk yield (-1,206 kg, p < 0.001), milk fat (-22.9 kg, p = 0.001), and milk protein (-41.6 kg, p <0.001) was evident on F. hepatica positive German Holstein farms, only milk fat (-33.8 kg, p = 0.01) and milk protein (-22.6 kg, p = 0.03) were affected on F. hepatica positive German Simmental farms. Subsequently, production traits were modelled within each of the two breeds for low, medium, and high producing farms in the presence of F. hepatica antibodies and of confounders. On Holstein farms, the presence of F. hepatica seropositivity was associated with lower production, while on German Simmental farms such an association was less evident. This work demonstrates that production level is relevant when assessing the associations between the exposure to F. hepatica with production characteristics. Moreover, both models indicate a breed dependence. This could point towards a differential F. hepatica resilience of specialised dairy breeds in comparison with dual purpose breeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas W. Oehm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martina Hoedemaker
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Amely Campe
- Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniela Jordan
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Klawitter
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Knubben-Schweizer
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Oehm AW, Leinmueller M, Zablotski Y, Campe A, Hoedemaker M, Springer A, Jordan D, Strube C, Knubben-Schweizer G. Multinomial logistic regression based on neural networks reveals inherent differences among dairy farms depending on the differential exposure to Fasciola hepatica and Ostertagia ostertagi. Int J Parasitol 2023; 53:687-697. [PMID: 37355196 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Fasciola hepatica and Ostertagia ostertagi are cattle parasites with worldwide relevance for economic outcome as well as animal health and welfare. The on-farm exposure of cattle to both parasites is a function of host-associated, intrinsic, as well as environmental and farm-specific, extrinsic, factors. Even though knowledge on the biology of both parasites exists, sophisticated and innovative modelling approaches can help to deepen our understanding of key aspects fostering the exposure of dairy cows to these pathogens. In the present study, multiple multinomial logistic regression models were fitted via neural networks to describe the differences among farms where cattle were not exposed to either F. hepatica or O. ostertagi, to one parasite, or to both, respectively. Farm-specific production and management characteristics were used as covariates to portray these differences. This elucidated inherent farm characteristics associated with parasite exposure. In both studied regions, pasture access for cows, farm-level milk yield, and lameness prevalence were identified as relevant factors. In region 'South', adherence to organic farming principles was a further covariate of importance. In region 'North', the prevalence of cows with a low body condition score, herd size, hock lesion prevalence, farm-level somatic cell count, and study year appeared to be of relevance. The present study broadens our understanding of the complex epidemiological scenarios that could predict differential farm-level parasite status. The analyses have revealed the importance of awareness of dissimilarities between farms in regard to the differential exposure to F. hepatica and O. ostertagi. This provides solid evidence that dynamics and relevant factors differ depending on whether or not cows are exposed to F. hepatica, O. ostertagi, or to both.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas W Oehm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany.
| | - Markus Leinmueller
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Amely Campe
- Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Training for Health at the Human-Animal-Environment Interface, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martina Hoedemaker
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniela Jordan
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gabriela Knubben-Schweizer
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rehbein S, Hamel D, Lackerschmid J, Mayr S, Visser M. Multispecies helminth parasitism of grazing dairy cows in Germany and Austria, examined in the housing period. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY: REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2023; 40:100860. [PMID: 37068863 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Helminth composition and burden data for dairy cows have not been reported for >40 years for Germany and even less information is available for Austria. In the context of two recent studies, helminth parasitism was studied in 32 cows (23 from six farms in Bavaria and Tyrol; 9 from one farm in Saxony) from pasture-based dairy farms necropsied during the housing period. Helminths were enumerated and identified based on morphological characters (all helminths but rumen flukes) or molecular techniques (rumen flukes). Thirteen species of gastrointestinal nematodes and two species each of liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica, Dicrocoelium dendriticum) and rumen flukes (Calicophoron daubneyi, Paramphistomum leydeni) were recorded; no lungworms were recovered from any cow. Early fourth-stage (inhibited) larval Ostertagia species nematodes (210 to 140,600) were recovered from all cows, 31 each had adult Ostertagia ostertagi/Ostertagia lyrata (40 to 2020) and Trichostrongylus axei (10 to 53,400), 23 Oesophagostomum radiatum (1 to 242) and 20 Cooperia punctata (10 to 3330). Other nematodes present in descending order of prevalence were: Cooperia oncophora/Cooperia surnabada, Ostertagia leptospicularis/Ostertagia kolchida, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Bunostomum phlebotomum, Chabertia ovina, Nematodirus helvetianus, Trichostrongylus longispicularis, Haemonchus contortus and Aonchotheca bilobata. The cows from Bavaria and Tyrol harbored more total gastrointestinal nematodes than that from Saxony (geometric mean adult plus inhibited larval nematodes, 6510 vs. 2051, respectively). However, in both cohorts of cows abomasal nematodes accounted for ∼97% of the total nematode burden with inhibited larval Ostertagia species nematodes contributing over 70% of the total gastrointestinal nematode burden and ∼ 96% of the Ostertagia species burden. Approximately 44%, 37% and 19% of the cows harbored <5000, 5000 to 10,000 or > 10,000 total gastrointestinal nematodes, respectively. Fecal nematode egg and coproculture nematode larval counts significantly correlated with the cows' total adult nematode burden (rs = 0.354, p < 0.05, and rs = 0.608, p < 0.001, respectively). Although the magnitude of nematode burden to exert production effects on dairy cows is not well defined and may vary relative to several factors including nutritional supplementation, the level of mixed parasitism found in this investigation supports consideration of grazing dairy cows in helminth control measures, especially at the time of housing in autumn.
Collapse
|
4
|
Charlier J, Williams DJ, Ravinet N, Claerebout E. To treat or not to treat: diagnostic thresholds in subclinical helminth infections of cattle. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:139-151. [PMID: 36526548 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Helminth infections of cattle place significant burdens on livestock production and farm economic efficiency. Heavy infections are relatively easy to detect and treat with anthelmintics. However, subclinical infections have major but often hidden impacts on animals, necessitating more refined diagnostics to detect them and ideally inform farmers about the likely impact of anthelmintic treatment on animal and herd performance. Here, we review recent advances in diagnosing three major cattle helminth infections - gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs), liver flukes, and lungworms - and the search for subclinical infection thresholds to guide treatment decisions. Combining refined diagnostic thresholds with farm-specific information on grazing systems and animal history enables farmers to tailor helminth treatments to specific epidemiological circumstances, thereby limiting anthelmintic resistance (AR) and boosting agricultural efficiency and food security.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana J Williams
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Edwin Claerebout
- Laboratory for Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gazzonis AL, Zanzani SA, Aloisio G, Migliorati E, Villa L, Manfredi MT. Gastrointestinal parasitic infections in intensive dairy cattle breeding: Update on the epidemiology and associated risk factors in northern Italy. Parasitol Int 2022; 91:102641. [PMID: 35933035 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic infections such as Strongylida and Eimeria still represent a major health problem of dairy cattle impacting their health, welfare, and productivity. In view of the scarcity of data on risk factors contributing to the spread of parasitic infections in cattle breeding, an epidemiological study in intensive dairy farms in northern Italy was planned. 495 animals (lactating and dry cows, heifers, and calves) from 19 farms were enrolled in the study. Individual fecal samples were analyzed by a quantitative copromicroscopic analysis to detect the number of Strongylida eggs or Eimeria oocysts per gram of faeces (EPG/OPG). Data concerning management, sanitary and biosecurity measures were collected using a questionnaire; a management measures score (MMS) was also calculated. The possible influence of risk factors on Strongylida and Eimeria was thus assessed by statistical analysis using generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs). Eimeria spp. was the most frequently detected parasitic taxon (herd and individual prevalence: 89.5% and 46.2%, respectively), followed by Strongylida (herd and individual prevalence: 63.1% and 16.6%, respectively). The presence of Strongylida resulted associated to the productive category (p-value = 0.028), with heifers and dry cows at higher risk of infection than lactating cows and calves, and to the MMS (p-value = 0.007). Higher prevalence values were recorded in farms with intermediate or low MMS compared to those with optimal MMS. As regard Eimeria infection, a greater effect of MMS on OPG counts was recorded in calves when compared to those recorded in heifers (OR = 0.228, p-value = 0.003) and dry cows (OR = 0.241, p-value = 0.009). Gastrointestinal parasitic infections still remain an underestimated problem in intensive dairy cattle breeding. MMS may help in the choice of strategies aimed at minimizing the impact of parasites on animal health, thus improving the productivity of the entire herd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Libera Gazzonis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy.
| | - Sergio Aurelio Zanzani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Giulia Aloisio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Elisa Migliorati
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Luca Villa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Manfredi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
A machine learning approach using partitioning around medoids clustering and random forest classification to model groups of farms in regard to production parameters and bulk tank milk antibody status of two major internal parasites in dairy cows. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271413. [PMID: 35816512 PMCID: PMC9273072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasciola hepatica and Ostertagia ostertagi are internal parasites of cattle compromising physiology, productivity, and well-being. Parasites are complex in their effect on hosts, sometimes making it difficult to identify clear directions of associations between infection and production parameters. Therefore, unsupervised approaches not assuming a structure reduce the risk of introducing bias to the analysis. They may provide insights which cannot be obtained with conventional, supervised methodology. An unsupervised, exploratory cluster analysis approach using the k–mode algorithm and partitioning around medoids detected two distinct clusters in a cross-sectional data set of milk yield, milk fat content, milk protein content as well as F. hepatica or O. ostertagi bulk tank milk antibody status from 606 dairy farms in three structurally different dairying regions in Germany. Parasite–positive farms grouped together with their respective production parameters to form separate clusters. A random forests algorithm characterised clusters with regard to external variables. Across all study regions, co–infections with F. hepatica or O. ostertagi, respectively, farming type, and pasture access appeared to be the most important factors discriminating clusters (i.e. farms). Furthermore, farm level lameness prevalence, herd size, BCS, stage of lactation, and somatic cell count were relevant criteria distinguishing clusters. This study is among the first to apply a cluster analysis approach in this context and potentially the first to implement a k–medoids algorithm and partitioning around medoids in the veterinary field. The results demonstrated that biologically relevant patterns of parasite status and milk parameters exist between farms positive for F. hepatica or O. ostertagi, respectively, and negative farms. Moreover, the machine learning approach confirmed results of previous work and shed further light on the complex setting of associations a between parasitic diseases, milk yield and milk constituents, and management practices.
Collapse
|
7
|
Mendoza-de Gives P. Soil-Borne Nematodes: Impact in Agriculture and Livestock and Sustainable Strategies of Prevention and Control with Special Reference to the Use of Nematode Natural Enemies. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060640. [PMID: 35745494 PMCID: PMC9229181 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-borne parasitic nematodes cause severe deterioration in the health of crops and supply animals, leading to enormous economic losses in the agriculture and livestock industry worldwide. The traditional strategy to control these parasites has been based on chemically synthesised compounds with parasiticidal activity, e.g., pesticides and anthelmintic drugs, which have shown a negative impact on the environment. These compounds affect the soil’s beneficial microbiota and can also remain as toxic residues in agricultural crops, e.g., fruits and legumes, and in the case of animal products for human consumption, toxic residues can remain in milk, meat, and sub-products derived from the livestock industry. Other alternatives of control with much less negative environmental impact have been studied, and new strategies of control based on the use of natural nematode enemies have been proposed from a sustainable perspective. In this review, a general view of the problem caused by parasitic nematodes affecting the agriculture and livestock industry, traditional methods of control, and new strategies of control based on eco-friendly alternatives are briefly described, with a special focus on a group of natural nematode antagonists that have been recently explored with promising results against plagues of importance for agricultural and livestock production systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Mendoza-de Gives
- National Centre for Disciplinary Research in Animal Health and Innocuity (CENID-SAI), Laboratory of Helminthology, National Institute for Research in Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock, INIFAP-SADER, Morelos 62550, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Haymanot F, Kaba T. Prevalence and associated factors of gastrointestinal helminthiasis of lactating cow and effect of strategic deworming on milk quantity, fat, and protein in Kucha, Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:150. [PMID: 35468823 PMCID: PMC9036821 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03251-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gastrointestinal helminthiasis poses economic impacts on the dairy sector by reducing milk production. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis, the burden of helminths, and appraising potential factors associated with the prevalence in lactating cows. The study was also designed to elucidate the effects of anthelmintic treatment on milk yield, milk fat, and protein content in the Kucha district. Methods A cross-sectional and field clinical trial study designs were used. Standard parasitological techniques (floatation and sedimentation) were employed to detect cows’ infection status. McMaster and Stoll’s egg counting methods were used to estimate helminths' burden. All putative factors that might have been linked with infection were recorded by field observations and farmers' interviews. Sixty cows tested positive for the parasitic infection in the cross-sectional study design were randomly assigned into one of the two groups (dewormed Vs control). Milk yield, milk fat and protein contents were recorded in both groups on day zero and then on weekly basis. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and repeated measure ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Results Overall, of 422 examined cows, 150 (35.5%, 95% CI; 30.9-40.3%) were infected with at least one of the gastrointestinal helminth parasites. Strongyle nematode was the predominant type accounting for 52% of the total record. Analysis of fecal egg count (FEC) in infected cows depicts the highest record of Parampistomum egg, accounting 457.14 ± 275.45 Egg per gram (EPG) of feces. The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in cow that had an average body condition score of 1.7 was over two fold higher (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.17–4.17, P = 0.016) than in cows with 6.3 body condition score. A significant improvement in milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein was observed in dewormed cows over 28 days period. Conclusion Gastrointestinal helminthiasis is threatening the welfare of lactating cows in Kucha, Ethiopia given its negative association with the body condition score. Gastrointestinal helminths are responsible for the reduction of milk yield and loss of milk fat and protein. However, an improvement in milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein after deworming using Tetrox® (Tetramisole and Oxyclozanide combination), a new drug to the area/ a drug used by relatively few farmers in the study area, proves the effectiveness of strategic deworming. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03251-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fikre Haymanot
- Kucha District Agricultural Bureau, Livestock and Fisheries Resource Unit, Kucha, Ethiopia
| | - Tamirat Kaba
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, College of Agricultural Science, Arba Minch University, P.O. Box: 21, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mpisana Z, Jaja IF, Byaruhanga C, Marufu MC. Body condition scores, fluke intensity, liver pathology, and carcass quality of different dairy cattle genotypes infected with Fasciola species at high throughput abattoirs in South Africa. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1671-1682. [PMID: 35366098 PMCID: PMC9098594 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07504-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Milk is an essential commodity whose demand far exceeds supply. However, dairy animal productivity is constantly hampered by parasitic diseases such as fasciolosis, affecting milk production. Despite the negative impact of liver fluke on milk production, there is little information on liver fluke infection and associated abattoir losses (body weight, condition score, liver pathology, and carcass quality) in culled dairy cattle. This study aimed to determine body condition scores, fluke intensity, liver pathology, and carcass quality of different cattle genotypes infected with Fasciola species at three commercial abattoirs. A longitudinal study was conducted from September 2019 to October 2020 to determine body condition score, liver fluke intensity, liver pathology in 3065 dairy cattle slaughtered in CA1, CA2, and CA3, of the Eastern Cape Province South Africa. Liver fluke intensity significantly increased with cattle age (P < 0.0001). Cattle ≥ 7 years old (59.93 ± 6.42) and those 4 to 6 years old (49.78 ± 9.98) had higher infection than those 2 to 3 years old (27.55 ± 13.68). The liver fluke infection was significantly (P < 0.001) the highest when sampling was conducted in summer, followed by autumn and winter, and least for spring. The differences in carcass weights or body condition scores decreased by 0.99 units (P < 0.0001) or 0.97 units (P < 0.0001) respectively. Therefore, this study suggests that fluke infection could be responsible for considerable economic and production losses mainly due to condemnation and weight loss in dairy cattle. This study recommended a combination of holistic and grazing management to control infection rates in dairy herds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuko Mpisana
- Department of Livestock and Pasture Science, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X 1314, Alice, 5700, South Africa
| | - Ishmael Festus Jaja
- Department of Livestock and Pasture Science, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X 1314, Alice, 5700, South Africa. .,Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Munyaradzi Christopher Marufu
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Charlier J, Bartley DJ, Sotiraki S, Martinez-Valladares M, Claerebout E, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Thamsborg SM, Hoste H, Morgan ER, Rinaldi L. Anthelmintic resistance in ruminants: challenges and solutions. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 115:171-227. [PMID: 35249662 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anthelmintic resistance (AR) is a growing concern for effective parasite control in farmed ruminants globally. Combatting AR will require intensified and integrated research efforts in the development of innovative diagnostic tests to detect helminth infections and AR, sustainable anthelmintic treatment strategies and the development of complementary control approaches such as vaccination and plant-based control. It will also require a better understanding of socio-economic drivers of anthelmintic treatment decisions, in order to support a behavioural shift and develop targeted communication strategies that promote the uptake of evidence-based sustainable solutions. Here, we review the state-of-the-art in these different fields of research activity related to AR in helminths of livestock ruminants in Europe and beyond. We conclude that in the advent of new challenges and solutions emerging from continuing spread of AR and intensified research efforts, respectively, there is a strong need for transnational multi-actor initiatives. These should involve all key stakeholders to develop indicators of infection and sustainable control, set targets and promote good practices to achieve them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - D J Bartley
- Disease Control, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, United Kingdom
| | - S Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation ELGO-DIMITRA, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - M Martinez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, León, Spain
| | - E Claerebout
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Parasitology, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - G von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - S M Thamsborg
- Veterinary Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - H Hoste
- INRAE, UMR 1225 IHAP INRAE/ENVT, Toulouse University, Toulouse, France
| | - E R Morgan
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - L Rinaldi
- University of Naples Federico II, Unit of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, CREMOPAR, Napoli, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
May K, Raue K, Blazejak K, Jordan D, Strube C. Pasture rewetting in the context of nature conservation shows no long-term impact on endoparasite infections in sheep and cattle. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:33. [PMID: 35062999 PMCID: PMC8780295 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nature conservation with reduced drainage of pastures has been increasingly promoted in agriculture in recent years. However, moisture on pastures is a crucial factor for the development of free-living stages of many parasite species in ruminants. Hence, for the first time, we conducted a field study between 2015 and 2017 at the German North Sea coast to investigate the long-term effect of pasture rewetting (since 2004) on endoparasite infections in sheep and cattle. METHODS We examined faecal samples of 474 sheep and 646 cattle from five farms in spring, summer and autumn each year for the presence of endoparasite infections. Animals were kept on conventionally drained, undrained and rewetted pastures. The association between pasture rewetting and endoparasite infection probability was analysed in generalized linear mixed models and including further potential confounders. RESULTS Infection frequencies for gastrointestinal strongyles, Eimeria spp. and Strongyloides papillosus were significantly higher in sheep (62.9%, 31.7% and 16.7%) than in cattle (39.0%, 19.7% and 2.6%). Fasciola hepatica was detected with a frequency of 13.3% in sheep and 9.8% in cattle, while rumen fluke frequency was significantly higher in cattle (12.7%) than in sheep (3.8%). Nematodirus spp., lungworms (protostrongylids, Dictyocaulus viviparus), Moniezia spp., Trichuris spp. and Dicrocoelium dendriticum were identified in less than 7% of samples. Co-infection with more than three endoparasite taxa was present significantly more often in sheep than in cattle. We identified significant positive correlations above 0.2 for excretion intensities between S. papillosus with strongyles, Eimeria spp. and Nematodirus spp. in sheep and between strongyles and Nematodirus spp. in cattle. Pasture rewetting had no long-term effect on endoparasite infections, neither in sheep nor in cattle. Interestingly, F. hepatica infections decreased significantly in sheep and cattle from 2015 (10.9% and 13.9%) to 2017 (1.4% and 2.1%). CONCLUSIONS Pasture rewetting for nature conservation did not increase endoparasite infection probability in ruminants in the long term. This finding should be confirmed in ongoing studies aimed at further animal welfare parameters. The rapid decrease in F. hepatica infections over 3 years may suggest climatic impact or competition with rumen flukes in addition to potential anthelmintic treatment after feedback of the results to the farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina May
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, 35390 Gießen, Germany
| | - Katharina Raue
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Katrin Blazejak
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniela Jordan
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Forstmaier T, Knubben-Schweizer G, Strube C, Zablotski Y, Wenzel C. Rumen ( Calicophoron/ Paramphistomum spp.) and Liver Flukes ( Fasciola hepatica) in Cattle-Prevalence, Distribution, and Impact of Management Factors in Germany. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092727. [PMID: 34573693 PMCID: PMC8469404 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Paramphistomidosis is a parasitic disease of ruminants caused by so-called rumen flukes. To determine the current prevalence in German cattle, faecal samples from 614 herds were examined for parasite eggs. In addition, the occurring rumen fluke species were determined, resulting in Calicophoron daubneyi and Paramphistomum leydeni. In the course of the work, the occurrence of the common liver fluke, causing fasciolosis, was also documented. Rumen fluke eggs could be detected in 5.5% of German cattle farms, liver flukes in 9.5%. In 2.1% of the farms, both fluke types occurred. Regional differences between northern and southern Germany were detected. Cattle grazing and fed with fresh grass were more likely to be infected with rumen and liver flukes than cattle without such access. Cattle from organic farms were also more likely to have fluke infections than those from conventional farms, in suckler cows, however, this association only applied to rumen flukes. Abstract This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of rumen flukes on German cattle farms via the sedimentation technique, and to identify the rumen fluke species occurring in Germany. Additionally, the prevalence of patent Fasciola hepatica infections was determined. Furthermore, a short questionnaire was answered by the farmers. A prevalence of 5.5% and 9.5% was detected for rumen flukes and liver flukes, respectively. Coinfections occurred on 2.1% of farms. In northern Germany, the rumen fluke prevalence was higher than in southern Germany, while for liver fluke the distribution was reversed. Rumen flukes were mostly identified as Calicophoron daubneyi, but in four cases, sequencing revealed Paramphistomum leydeni for the first time in Germany. Grazing and feeding of fresh grass, as well as organic farming, were significantly associated with rumen and liver fluke occurrence. In contrast, suckler cow husbandry only had an influence on the occurrence of rumen flukes, but not liver flukes. Trematode eggs could be detected in both, farms with and without deworming. Since there were only a few studies about Paramphistomidosis in Germany, more attention should be paid to these parasitic diseases for animal welfare and animal health reasons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Forstmaier
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany; (T.F.); (G.K.-S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Gabriela Knubben-Schweizer
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany; (T.F.); (G.K.-S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hanover, Germany;
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany; (T.F.); (G.K.-S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Christoph Wenzel
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany; (T.F.); (G.K.-S.); (Y.Z.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|