Internal parasites are a major cause of lost production in livestock.
Parasite-killing drenches are an effective way of controlling parasites, but experts say some New Zealand farmers are using drenches in a way that will lead to drench-resistant parasites. And once present on a farm, parasite resistance to drench is permanent.
To combat this, Wormwise – an industry initiative aimed at developing a national worm management strategy – was established.
Wormwise manages and integrates research, education, communication and extension services for farmers, veterinarians, key influencers and retailers of anthelmintics.
Wormwise began in 2005 after a national survey of New Zealand sheep and beef farms revealed significant levels of anthelmintic resistance to internal parasites.
Its management group includes representatives from Agcarm, Meat and Wool New Zealand, MAF Sustainable Farming Fund, and the Veterinary Association.
After consultation with experts in parasitology, agreed principles were established. These are simple but important strategies that farmers can use to manage internal parasites in sheep and cattle on their farm.
The Wormwise brand launched in 2006 aims to be the recognised and trusted source of knowledge about worm management.
