Hi everyone,
The hot weather we have seen recently have caused facial eczema spore counts to start rising.
The samples collected this week has shown counts are rising to moderate levels across the region, therefore it is important to ensure you are underway with preventative measures. After several weeks of moderately elevated spore counts there is a real risk of accumulative subclinical liver damage occuring in your stock along with acute clinical cases of photosensitivity.
The most reliable way to protect your stock from facial eczema is by Zinc administratiuon, this protects the liver from the Sporedesmin toxin realeased by the fungal spores so will reduce liver damage and secondary signs of photosensitization. There are 3 main methods of Zinc dosing:
- Intrarumen bolus (FaceGuard) – most reliable protection as provides slow release cover for 6 weeks with sheep and cattle sizes available.
- Oral drenching (Zinc Oxide suspension and powder) – is required weekly.
- Dissolved in trough line water (Zinc Sulphate powder) – only for use in cattle.
Please give us a call if you have any questions or to order supplies in advance, particularly capsules. Also if you would like an accurate paddock count please bring in a grass sample to be tested.
