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Myiasis in sheep in The Netherlands
J J Snoep1, J Sol, O C Sampimon
1Animal Health Service, Arnsbergstraat 7, P.O. Box 9, 7400 AA, Deventer, The Netherlands. j.snoep@gdvdieren.nl
Veterinary Parasitology
|June 25, 2002
Summary
Sheep myiasis, caused by fly strike, affected 2.9% of sheep in the Netherlands. Higher prevalence was linked to larger flocks and hot, humid weather, particularly in August, with ewes and ewe lambs most affected.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Sheep Production Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Myiasis, or fly strike, is a significant parasitic disease in sheep.
- Understanding its prevalence and risk factors is crucial for effective flock management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of myiasis in Dutch sheep.
- To identify factors associated with myiasis occurrence in sheep flocks.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was conducted among 164 Dutch sheep farmers in 1999.
- Data collected on flock size, animal demographics, myiasis cases, and management practices.
Main Results:
- Myiasis occurred on 52.4% of farms, affecting 2.9% of 12,200 sheep.
- Higher prevalence was observed on farms with over 25 ewes.
- Cases peaked in August, associated with hot, humid weather; ewes and ewe lambs were more susceptible.
Conclusions:
- Sheep myiasis is prevalent in the Netherlands, with significant risk factors including flock size and environmental conditions.
- No association was found with tail docking, breed, shearing time, soil type, environment, or various treatment and observation strategies.