Changing patterns of Nematodirus battus infection

Abstract

Nematodirus battus is a gastrointestinal parasite which has a huge impact in UK sheep flocks as a result of lamb mortality and reduction in growth. Farmers and veterinary surgeons conventionally focus their efforts on preventing outbreaks of nematodirosis during the spring, but the incidence of autumn infections is a growing concern. The aim of this article is to highlight the changes in the behaviour of N. battus and provide some guidance on how to approach the challenges that this creates.