Was that a fluke? How better to understand fluke infections in sheep flocks

Liver fluke is amongst the most detrimental pathogens of livestock globally. Anthelmintic resistance seriously hampers efforts to control fluke efficiently, and so there is an urgent need for widespread uptake of non-chemical control strategies where land or grazing management strategies impairs the fluke lifecycle which involves an intermediate host (G. truncatula). However, it is unclear how well farmers can identify risk areas for targeted action to reduce fluke infection risk on their farms.
This session will present findings from a study evaluating farmers’ perceptions and understanding of liver fluke infection risk. The results reveal notable discrepancies between farmer perceptions and the actual spatial distribution of fluke risk on sheep farms. These misunderstandings contribute to precautionary, and often unnecessary, anthelmintic treatments. The relationships between farmers and their vets in relation to fluke control will also be discusses and potential future directions for sustainable liver fluke control in the UK will be outlined.

• Improved understanding of fluke epidemiology: Participants will gain insight into the liver fluke life cycle, including the role of Galba truncatula, and how environmental and grazing factors influence infection risk.
• Critical awareness of risk perception gaps: Attendees will learn how farmer perceptions can differ from actual on-farm fluke risk, and the implications this has for disease management and treatment decisions.
• Application of targeted, sustainable control strategies: Participants will develop knowledge of practical non-chemical approaches, including land and grazing management techniques to reduce fluke transmission.
• Enhanced appreciation of decision-making dynamics: The session will provide insight into farmer–veterinarian relationships and how these interactions shape fluke control practices and future sustainable approaches.