Import of Parafilaria bovicola in the Netherlands

In March 2007 cutaneous nodules were observed in the neck-, shoulder- and back-region of a breeding bull, imported from France in November 2006. The nodules opened spontaneously and produced a haemorrhagic exudate. After suspicion of parafilariosis, the bull was treated with moxidectin, but without effect. Treatment with ivermectin stopped the bleedings. To prevent spread of this imported infection, the bull was euthanised and necropsied. Worms were found in the subcutis which could be identified as Parafilaria bovicola. This is the first diagnosed case of parafilariosis in the Netherlands. In the following period, all cattle on the farm were carefully examined for signs of parafilariosis and provided with permethrin containing ear tags. Till July 2008, no new cases on the farm were observed.