Integrated Control Strategies for Helminth Parasites in Livestock

Abstract

Parasitic infections are highly prevalent among livestock occurring in one-fourth of farm animals annually. In animal husbandry, chemotherapy is the more successful technique used in mitigating parasitism; although, safe, effective, and economical, its deleterious and debilitating side effects make it necessary to explore alternative disease control strategies. Presently, researchers are examining integrated initiatives that may involve a trifecta of grazing management, biological control, and parasite vaccination programs. Experimental studies and veterinary practice suggest vaccination may be the most effective procedure employed in controlling parasites. Proteomic research has provided viable pathways for the integrated control of parasites resulting in the identification of proteins with promising immunostimulatory properties. In vivo vaccination programs involving several candidate antigens show promising efficacy results. This chapter attempts to review and hopefully consolidate available strategies for parasite control within the context of vaccine development.