Additional supplies of Huskvac announced

Huskvac manufacturers, Intervet, is advising farmers that the product will be available for an extra month this year as a result of exceptional demand and the likely above average lungworm challenge this summer.  Instead of the usual close of season at the end of July, Huskvac will be available until the end of August.

Lungworm larvae (which cause husk) thrive on wet pasture and in warm temperatures.  With spring 2007 warmer and wetter than average, numbers are likely to be high which means the threat to cattle will be too.  This has led to Intervet ordering addition stock to ensure all orders can be met.

Although Huskvac vaccination is traditionally associated with turnout, in recent years vets across the country have reported an increasing problem with lungworm outbreaks in all ages of cattle as summer and autumn progress.  This could be as a result of a combination of weather conditions and some stock being ‘over-wormed’ with bolus or pour-on wormers meaning that they have not had the chance to develop any natural immunity to lungworm. 

In addition, husk outbreaks are being increasingly seen in adult milking cows.  This reduces yield and can mean that an infected animal fails to go on and fulfil her lactation potential. 

Huskvac can be ordered from veterinary practices and advice on the timing of doses should also be sought from your vet.