Novartis Animal Health offers seasonal nematodirus warning

Novartis Animal Health has provided sheep producers with a warning of the growing risks posed by nematodirus at this time of year.

The veterinary medicines manufacturer has observed that changing temperatures over the last few weeks had created prime conditions for nematodirus infection, a parasite-borne disease that can cause stunted growth or death among lambs.

Guidance from Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) has cautioned that this is a critical issue in May and June, due to the fact that lambs are in a particularly pivotal stage of their development.

Novartis Animal Health offers the white drench product Rycoben, which has a proven and effective track record in controlling nematodirus.

Simon Harris, farm animal product manager for Novartis Animal Health, said: "Farmers should seek guidance from their health advisers if they suspect their lambs are at risk from nematodirus and should follow SCOPS guidelines in the treatment of their animals."

Last month, the company published data from a global survey showing a lack of awareness among pet owners about allergies suffered by their domestic animals.