Control Of Ectoparasites Research Articles

Lambda-cyhalothrin induces heart injury in chickens by regulating cytochrome P450 enzyme system and inhibiting Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) is a common pyrethroid insecticide widely used for ectoparasite control and hygiene pest prevention in poultry and this study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of LCT-induced cardiac injury in chickens. Low, medium, and high-dose LCT exposure models in chickens were established and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, TUNEL staining, immunofluorescence, biochemical analysis, and gene expression analysis were used to study the effects of LCT exposure on the chicken heart. The results showed that LCT exposure increased the serum levels of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), led to muscle fiber breakage and inflammatory cell infiltration and caused cardiac tissue damage. The DHE staining and biochemical analysis revealed that LCT exposure resulted in the excessive accumulation of ROS, decreased activities/levels of catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione (GSH), and increased levels of the oxidative damage marker malondialdehyde (MDA). The TUNEL staining indicated that LCT exposure increased apoptosis possibly through the elevated expression of pro-apoptotic genes in the mitochondrial pathway, the reduced expression of anti-apoptotic genes, the upregulation of pro-inflammatory factors and the downregulation of anti-inflammatory factors. Here, LCT exposure significantly inhibited the expression of genes in the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and activated the expression of genes in the CYP450 enzyme system. Compared to the low-dose group, the high-dose LCT exposure group showed lower levels of apoptosis and inflammation, possibly related to the low oxidative stress levels mediated by the decreased expression of the CYP450 enzyme system. In conclusion, LCT exposure induces oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in chicken hearts, which may be associated with the inhibition of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and activation of the CYP450 enzyme system. This study provides a theoretical basis for the safer use of insecticides in poultry production.

Case of vector-borne coinfection in a dog

Vector-borne diseases (VBD) in dogs, such as babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and dirofilariasis, pose a significant threat to animal health in many regions worldwide, including Ukraine. These diseases are transmitted through the bites of ectoparasites, such as ticks and mosquitoes. With increasing urbanization, climate change, and population migration, the risk of spreading these diseases is significantly heightened. This article is dedicated to the case analysis of a dog in Ukraine diagnosed with two vector-borne diseases simultaneously, focusing on the clinical manifestations and diagnostic approaches for these conditions. Currently, the prevalence of VBD in dogs in Ukraine is insufficiently studied. There are only sporadic reports of isolated pathogens, with comprehensive information needing to be included. A case of concurrent dirofilariasis and babesiosis in a dog is presented. In the spring of 2024, an 8-year-old intact male German shepherd was brought to a veterinary clinic in Kamianets-Podilskyi due to general weakness. Clinical signs included fever, vomiting, slightly pale mucous membranes, and a mild cough. Following abdominal ultrasound and blood sample collection, anti-inflammatory and antiemetic medications were prescribed. A blood smear revealed Babesia canis and treatment with imidocarb was initiated. However, after a week, the dog's condition did not improve. A repeat blood test detected live microfilariae, and the CaniV-4 test identified antibodies to D. immitis, confirming dirofilariasis. Molecular studies corroborated the diagnosis. Follow-up echocardiography and radiography did not reveal visible adult worms in the heart. The dog was treated with melarsomine and a combination of imidacloprid and moxidectin. Two months later, follow-up blood tests showed no presence of microfilariae, and all blood and biochemical parameters were within normal ranges. The dog was under continuous veterinary supervision for the following months. Overall, there is a noticeable trend in the increase of VBD among dogs in Ukraine, necessitating heightened attention from veterinary services and pet owners. Regular preventive measures, such as ectoparasite control and health monitoring, are crucial for managing the spread of these diseases.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices of veterinarians towards canine vector-borne pathogens in Sri Lanka.

Canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBP) have a worldwide distribution and show a high prevalence in tropical countries such as Sri Lanka. Some CVBP are zoonotic, with dogs identified as reservoir hosts for human subcutaneous dirofilariasis and potentially for spotted fever rickettsioses and re-emergent brugian filariasis in Sri Lanka, making these pathogens emerging public health issues in the country. Veterinarians are crucial in monitoring, preventing, and controlling these pathogens in dogs. Therefore, it is imperative to understand veterinarians' knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding CVBP to mitigate their impact. A survey was designed and administered electronically to veterinarians residing and practising in Sri Lanka. Responses were evaluated using descriptive, univariable, and multivariable analyses to investigate associations between demographic factors, knowledge, attitude, and practices related to CVBP. Out of the 170 participating veterinarians, nearly 70% had moderate or high knowledge. However, the awareness of zoonotic pathogens, Brugia spp. (16%) and Rickettsia conorii (18%), was low, and a considerable number of veterinarians were unaware of the zoonotic nature of Dirofilaria repens. Based on multivariable analysis adjusting for experience and self-rated knowledge, new graduates had higher odds of knowledge compared to experienced veterinarians (OR 5.7, 95% CI 1.7-23, p = 0.028). Questions assessing the attitude towards CVBP indicated that most participating veterinarians comprehend and agree with their importance. Nearly all participants agreed that ectoparasite control is the best option to prevent CVBP infections (91%, 153/167) and that for effective treatment of CVBP, a definitive diagnosis is required (81%, 135/167). However, veterinarians recommended suboptimal treatments for some CVBP, like Babesia gibsoni. Better practices were associated with being a companion animal practitioner (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.7, p = 0.032) and having a low to moderate canine caseload (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.3-10.4, p = 0.038). Limited knowledge of zoonotic CVBP among veterinarians, along with suboptimal treatment, might contribute to dogs acting as reservoirs and high prevalence of these pathogens in Sri Lanka. Therefore, continued veterinary education is recommended to improve knowledge and practices, which in turn will help to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and control of these infections in Sri Lanka to ensure the well-being of dogs and humans.

Potential of Streptomyces avermitilis: A Review on Avermectin Production and Its Biocidal Effect.

Secondary metabolites produced by the fermentation of Streptomyces avermitilis bacterium are powerful antiparasitic agents used in animal health, agriculture and human infection treatments. Avermectin is a macrocyclic lactone with four structural components (A1, A2, B1, B2), each of them containing a major and a minor subcomponent, out of which avermectin B1a is the most effective parasitic control compound. Avermectin B1a produces two homologue avermectins (B1 and B2) that have been used in agriculture as pesticides and antiparasitic agents, since 1985. It has a great affinity with the Cl-channels of the glutamate receptor, allowing the constant flow of Cl- ions into the nerve cells, causing a phenomenon of hyperpolarization causing death by flaccid paralysis. The purpose of this work was to gather information on the production of avermectins and their biocidal effects, with special emphasis on their role in the control of pests and phytopathogenic diseases. The literature showed that S. avermitilis is an important producer of macrocyclic lactones with biocidal properties. In addition, avermectin contributes to the control of ectoparasites and endoparasites in human health care, veterinary medicine and agriculture. Importantly, avermectin is a compound that is harmless to the host (no side effects), non-target organisms and the environment.

Fauna of ectoparasites of fur-bearing animals in fur farms of the Tver region

Fur farming is a branch of agriculture that specializes in breeding fur-bearing animals in order to obtain valuable fur skins from them. An important task of fur farming is to increase the quantity and quality of products obtained through intensification of production. This may lead to an increase in the number of outbreaks of infectious and invasive diseases. Ectoparasites negatively affect the quality of fur and can lead to the death of young animals. We conducted a study of the ectoparasite fauna in fur farms of the Tver region: «Savvatyevo» and «Mekha». We examined three types of furbearing animals: fox, American mink, and ferret. We performed a clinical examination of the animals; we examined the fur to detect fleas; we examined parasitological material from the auricle and external auditory canal under a microscope, we caught and determined the type of zoophilic flies. Ear mites O. cynotis have been reported in foxes and polecats. In foxes, infection rates: age 5 months – prevalence of infection 80,95%, intensity of infection 20,00 copies, at the age of 1 year – 86,67% and 6,67 copies, at the age of 2 years – 100,00% and 8,10 copies. For ferrets: age 3 months - no ear mites detected, age 1-year prevalence of infection 86,67%, intensity of infection 2,50 copies, age 2 years – 100,00% and 14,20 copies. Taking these data into account, all age groups of foxes support the invasive potential of O. cynotis equally, being a source of infection of new animals and a reservoir of the pathogen. Fleas C. (M.) s. sciurorum have been recorded in minks. The average prevalence of infection in adult males and females is 63,3%, the average intensity of infection is 11.6 specimens. The prevalence of infection of zoophilic flies was: M. domestica – 45,1%, L. caesar – 28,6%, P. regina – 11,9%, C. uralensis – 9,6%, F. canicularis – 4,8%. The number of flies in the shad was up to 30 individuals/m2. The data obtained indicate the wide distribution of arachnoenthomosis among fur-bearing animals in fur farms of the Tver region, which makes it urgent to introduce new schemes for the control and prevention of ectoparasites.

Use of a modified SCORFAD scale to define localised reaction patterns associated with a flea burden in cats.

The SCORing Feline Allergic Dermatitis scale (SCORFAD) is a validated dermatological scale assessing reaction patterns associated with allergic dermatitis in cats. While no pathognomonic reaction pattern is recognised with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), miliary dermatitis is more common. This study aimed to document regional cutaneous reaction patterns of cats with fleas using a modified SCORFAD (mSCORFAD). In total, 142 owned cats from West Central Florida enrolled over three study periods. To be included, each cat and household environment had five or more fleas on Day (D)0. Cats were examined on D0, D7, D14, D21, D28, D44, D56 and D80. On D0 they were treated with an isoxazoline and treatment continued through the study. Ten body regions were assessed using mSCORFAD to give a regional score for each of four reaction patterns. These were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. At D80 there was an 80% reduction in total mSCORFAD representing clinical response to ectoparasite control only. The most commonly affected region was the ventral abdomen with a mean mSCORFAD score of 1.8 (95% confidence interval = 1.5-2.1) compared with other body regions (p < 0.01). The most common reaction patterns were self-induced alopecia on the ventral abdomen and miliary dermatitis in the cervical region (p < 0.0001). The mSCORFAD suggests that self-induced alopecia on the ventral abdomen and miliary dermatitis in the cervical region is more strongly associated with a flea burden in cats.

Workshop write up: responsible use of parasiticides

Parasiticides are the first line of treatment and prevention of ectoparasitic infections and are among the most prescribed medications in small animal practice. Many ectoparasiticide products are available, with an excellent record of safety and efficacy, significantly improving the quality of life of companion pets. In recent years, there have been concerns about the environmental impact of (and development of resistance to) these drugs. The future of ectoparasite control hinges on the responsible use of ectoparasiticides. In this workshop session, Hany Elsheikha explored ways to improve knowledge, awareness, attitudes and behaviours regarding the judicious usage of parasiticides.

SHEEP HOUSING AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT AT JOGLO FARM DRAMAGA BOGOR

The health of sheep is an important factor and can affect sheep production. Livestock health handlers include health handling, hoof cutting, cage disinfection, ectoparasite control, vaccine administration, and deworming. This activity aims to compare the knowledge gained in lectures and their application in the field related to housing management and sheep health. This activity was held at Joglo Farm for a month, from August 13, 2022, to September 13, 2022—observation and interview methods. This activity showed that sheep health management on the Joglo farm was quite good because the maintenance procedures were exceptionally complete and regular

Repeated Cross-Sectional Survey of Ectoparasites in Sheep from Central Tunisia: Does Low Prevalence Indicate Good Hygiene or Resistance to Ectoparasites?

Sheep ectoparasites such as chewing lice, fleas and ticks are serious constraints to sheep productivity and are the cause of skin lesions in animals that decrease their market value. This study aims at investigating the ectoparasite fauna infesting small ruminants in the district of Sidi Bouzid (central Tunisia). A total of 1243 Barbarine and Queue Fine de l'Ouest (QFO) sheep were examined every two months for one year. Of the total animals examined, 74 were infested by at least 1 parasite group (5.95%). Three ectoparasite groups were identified as Psoroptes ovis (0.48%; 6/1243), ticks (5.3%; n = 66/1243) and one specimen of Ctenocephalides canis (0.08%; n = 1/1243). The most abundant tick among the 358 specimens was Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (n = 337; 94.1%), followed by Hyalomma impeltatum (n = 7/358; 1.9%), H. dromedarii (n = 7/358; 1.9%), H. excavatum (n = 5/358; 1.4%) and only two specimens of H. scupense (n = 2/358; 0.55%). The sheep herds showed low infestation prevalence by ectoparasite over the year, with a significant difference according to the seasons (p < 0.05). A higher infestation prevalence was recorded in March (14.36%). Barbarine sheep breed showed significantly higher infestation prevalence (16.8%) compared to QFO (0.8%) (p < 0.01). There were no differences in infestation prevalence according to sex of the animal or age groups. Knowledge of the ectoparasite population harboured by sheep, its activity dynamics and risk factors is required to develop effective ectoparasite control options. The low prevalence of ectoparasite infestation in sheep reported here may be due to possible genetic resistance or simply to successful hygiene measures implemented by farmers.

A Study on Major Ectoparasites and Associated Skin Diseases of Ruminants in and Around Bishoftu Town, Central Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to April 2019 to evaluate the occurrence of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases in ruminants in and around Bishoftu town, central Ethiopia. A total of 437 ruminants (216 cattle, 141 sheep, and 80 goats) brought to the open-air Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Addis Ababa University, were sampled using simple random sampling. Accordingly, the occurrence of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases was found to be 59% (258), and out of these animals, 195 (44.6%) were infected with ectoparasites, of which 111 (25.4%) were bovine, 27 (6.2%) were caprine, and 57 (13%) were ovine. The major ectoparasite species identified were Amblyomma variegatum (13%), A. gemma (0.7%), A. cohaerens (1.8%), A. nymph (3.2%), H. truncatum (2.7%), Boophilus decoloratus (6.2%), Rhipicephalus pulchellus (1.8%), R. eversi (0.7%), Damalinia ovis (3%), Linognatus vituli (5.5%), Psoroptes (0.7%), Demodex bovis (0.5%), Ctenocephalides canis (0.7%) and Ct. felis (5.03). On the other hand, the associated skin diseases infesting animals were: 63 (14.4%), lumpy skin disease (0.9%), sheep pox (5.5%), goat pox (5%), dermatophilosis (0.2%), contagious ecthyma in caprine (2.1%), and contagious ecthyma in ovine (0.7%). The findings of the present study suggest that ectoparasites and associated skin diseases in and around Bishoftu are still widespread and economically important constraints for the productivity and use of ruminants. Hence, stringent adherence to the control of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases is required as a responsibility of the concerned government body based on professional research results in the study area.

Molecular detection and identification of hemotropic Mycoplasma species in dogs and their ectoparasites in Iran

Hemotropic Mycoplasma species are vector-borne bacteria that attach and grow on the surface of erythrocytes in various mammals, yet reports of canine hemoplasmosis in Iran are scarce. The aim of this study was molecular detection and identification of hemoplasmas in the blood of dogs (n = 370) from five provinces of Iran and ectoparasites infesting them including Ctenocephalides canis and Pulex irritans fleas, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks, Heterodoxus spiniger lice and Hippobosca longipennis keds. Hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. pathogens were detected using genus-specific conventional PCRs, and subsequently identified using species-specific PCRs for Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc), and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (CMhp). Sanger sequencing was then performed to confirm the species. Correlation of infection and risk factors (geographical area, keeping condition, body condition, sex, age, ectoparasite infestation) were analyzed. In total, 210 dogs (56.7%) were tested PCR-positive for hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. Species-specific PCR and sequencing revealed infection with Mhc in 17.8%, with CMhp in 7.02% and co-infection in 31.9% of dogs. Flea infestation, poor body condition, and being older than 3-years-old correlated with hemoplasmosis. In ectoparasites, DNA of hemoplasmas were detected only in fleas i.e. Mhc in P. irritans, CMhp in P. irritans and C. canis, and co-infection in C. canis. To our knowledge, this is the first large-scale molecular epidemiology study of canine hemoplasmosis in Iran. Considering the high prevalence of canine hemoplasmosis all over the country including potentially zoonotic CMhp, effective ectoparasite control strategies, regular examination of dogs, successful chemoprophylaxis and public awareness strategies are advocated.

Resistência anti-helmíntica em nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos no Brasil e Argentina - situação atual e perspectivas globais

Abstract This review outlines the current state of anthelmintic resistance (AHR) of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) among cattle in Argentina and Brazil, emphasizing the economic repercussions, animal health and welfare. The analysis explores factors associated with AHR and proposes a potential solution: the use of drug combinations. Both countries are grappling with a severe AHR scenario in cattle, having progressed through incipient, established, and advanced phases, leading to extreme cases of animal mortality due to ineffective control strategies. Genera such as Cooperia and Haemonchus have the highest reports of resistance, with Oesophagostomum radiatum also posing significant problems. While oral benzimidazoles and levamisole remain effective in most herds, moxidectin is entering an advanced resistance phase, and avermectins are increasingly deemed ineffective. The review explores the impact ofclimate, mixed grazing, animal movement and other husbandry practices, and the relationship between ectoparasite control and the emergence of resistant helminths. Notably, the discussion includes the strategic use of drug combinations as a valuable approach to address resistant GINs control in livestock, highlighting its significant potential to mitigate the challenges posed by AHR in the cattle industry of these countries.

Acaricidal effect of crude aqueous extract of Nicotiana tabacum along with turmeric and Annona leaf extract on cattle ticks

The ectoparasites produces severe economic and production loss in farm animal’s through tick bites, sucking of blood, tick worry, tick toxicosis, tick paralysis and transmission of haemoprotozoan diseases. Ticks developed resistance against chemical acaricides and also the residues of chemical acaricide producing environmental pollution. The herbal based acaricide used as biocontrol agent for protecting environment particularly hilly area. As per indigenous technical knowledge records, the Nicotiana tabacum was a traditional control remedy for control of ectoparasites in India. In vitro acaricidal efficacy of crude aqueous leaf extract of Nicotiana tabacum along with neem and turmeric followed by Annona leaves on immature and adult stages of Rhipicephalus sp. was carried out at different concentrations of with different time interval. These extract combo had a significant effect on the mortality of nymphal and adult stages of ticks. The 70%, 80% and 90% mortality of Nymphal and adult stages of ticks at 24-36 hours post treatment with 40%, 50% 70% concentration of herbal extract in invitro assay. The mortality rates of ticks increased with the increasing the extract concentrations both in vivo and in vitro. Nicotiana tabacum causes paralysis of ticks and leads to detachment from the body of animal and concluded that Nicotiana tabacum along with turmeric and annona extract is effective biocontrol agent for controlling ectoparasites without any environmental pollution and harmful side effect in animal health.

Nanoemulsion-based plant essential oil formulations: in vitro evaluation of pesticidal activity against ectoparasites in poultry

Ectoparasite infestations significantly impact the health and productivity of poultry. Chemical applications, although common for pest control, lead to pesticide residues and parasite resistance in poultry. Nanoemulsion-based plant essential oil formulations (NEOFs) provide a promising alternative for controlling poultry ectoparasites. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of NEOFs from clove, cinnamon, and turmeric essential oils (EOs) against ectoparasites, Menopon gallinae and Megninia ginglymura, under laboratory conditions. The toxicity and repellent properties of the NEOFs were examined, with the major chemical compounds of the EOs analyzed using chromatography mass spectrometer. Results identified eugenol as the dominant component in clove and cinnamon EOs (84.60 and 75.19%, respectively), while turmerone (68.46%) was the major compound in turmeric EO. NEOFs with clove:cinnamon:turmeric ratios of 4:0:0, 2:2:0, and 2:0:2 had particle size of 20.76 nm, 20.66 nm, and 89.56 nm, respectively, while those based on eugenol and turmerone standards had sizes <21.0 nm. In addition, NEOFs at 0.3% concentration with ratios of 4:0:0 and 2:2:0 achieved full control of both ectoparasites. These formulas demonstrated exceptional potency in exterminating ectoparasites, with LC50 and LC90 at <0.160 and <0.250%, respectively, 6 h after treatments. Furthermore, both NEOFs showed higher repellence responses in M. gallinae compared to M. ginglymura. The toxicities of these NEOFs were comparably effective against both parasites, showing no significant difference compared with chemical insecticide treatment. Therefore, further research will explore the practicality of using clove and cinnamon-derived NEOFs under farm conditions.

Assessing the efficacy of antiparasitic sprays

For the control of animal ectoparasites, a large number of prophylactic and therapeutic agents with different active ingredients and routes of administration have been proposed. The persistence of ectoparasitic infections in domestic animals has led to the search for more effective drugs and innovative forms of their production. The aim of the study was to establish and experimentally confirm the efficacy of innovative ectoparasiticidal sprays for dogs and cats for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes in parasitic infections. The antiparasitic agents used in the experiments were ‘PROFILINE Spray’, ‘INSECTOSTOP Spray’, and ‘Barrier-Super Insecticidal Spray’. In accordance with the tasks set, the research was carried out using visual and microscopic methods in accordance with existing practical guidelines and current methodological recommendations. In the study of ectoparasite collections, ixodid ticks (Ixodes ricinus), dog fleas (Ctenocephalus canis), and cat fleas (Ctenocephalus felis) were found. It was shown that the knockdown effect in all ticks began with a state of disorientation, the ticks began to move chaotically 6 hours after exposure to the experimental agents, and after 12 hours there was a complete knockdown of all experimental ixodid ticks and fleas. The high efficacy of ‘PROFILINE Spray’, ‘INSECTOSTOP Spray’, and ‘Barrier-Super Insecticidal Spray’ against fleas (Ctenocephalides spp.), lice (Trichodectes canis, Felicola subrostratus), lice (Linognathus setosus), and ixodid ticks (Ixodes spp.) was experimentally proven. The efficacy of the products is 100% within 60 days of application to animals. According to the results of the studies, it was found that the investigated veterinary sprays can be used for the prevention and treatment of pets with fleas, lice, and ixodid ticks

First report of the efficacy of a fluralaner-based pour-on product (Exzolt® 5%) against ectoparasites infesting cattle in Brazil

BackgroundThis study describes the effectiveness of a novel active pharmaceutical ingredient, fluralaner (isoxazoline class), against important ectoparasites infesting cattle in Brazil.MethodsA total of 13 studies involving a 5% fluralaner-based pour-on formulation (Exzolt 5%; further referred to as Exzolt) were conducted. Specifically, the effectiveness of this formulation was studied against Rhipicephalus microplus (6 studies), Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (4 studies), Dermatobia hominis larvae (1 study) and Haematobia irritans flies (2 studies).ResultsThe therapeutic efficacy of Exzolt was found to exceed 98% at 4 days post treatment (DPT), while persistent efficacy (> 90% efficacy) against repeated infestations of R. microplus was observed for up to 79 DPT. In field studies, ≥ 98% therapeutic efficacy was demonstrated at all study sites by 7 DPT, and a persistent efficacy (> 90% efficacy) was observed for 42, 49 or 56 DPT. Exzolt prevented C. hominivorax eggs from developing to the larval stage, thus mitigating the development of myiasis in cattle naturally and artificially infested with this screworm. The efficacy of Exzolt against D. hominis larvae was 98% at 3 DPT, while persistent efficacy (> 90% effectiveness) was found to last for up to 70 DPT. Against H. irritans, Exzolt showed therapeutic efficacy (≥ 90%) within the first day of treatment at both study sites, while persistent efficacy (≥ 90%) was observed for 7 DPT at one site and for 21 DPT at the other site.ConclusionsOverall, the results from these studies confirm that Exzolt is therapeutically efficacious against the most important ectoparasites infesting cattle in Brazil. The novel active pharmaceutical ingredient, fluralaner, provides a new treatment option for farmers to control cattle ectoparasites, especially where there is resistance to other chemical classes. In addition, an effective control of ectoparasites will improve overall cattle health and well-being as well as production.Graphical

Navigating the resistance: Current perspectives on ectoparasite control in veterinary medicine

Ectoparasites present a global challenge to animal health, affecting a wide range of species. These parasites can infect both animals and humans, leading to significant health issues. The impact of ectoparasites extends beyond health, as they can also reduce the productivity of livestock. Moreover, many ectoparasite species act as vectors for bacterial, viral, or parasitic pathogens, thereby posing significant risks to human and animal health. Historically, agents such as organochlorides, organophosphates, carbamates, insect growth regulators, neonicotinoids, spinosad, fipronil, avermectins, isoxazolines, and synthetic pyrethroids have been extensively used to treat and prevent ectoparasitic infestations. However, the extensive use of these chemicals has resulted in the development of resistance among many target species, potentially reducing the effectiveness of these treatments. This article aims to survey the current status of resistance in ectoparasites to active pharmaceutical ingredients used in veterinary medicine. It also seeks to update the understanding of resistance mechanisms and explore measures that can be implemented to prevent the development of resistance.

Larvicidal activity in vitro of essential oils against Cochliomyia hominivorax

Cochliomyia hominivorax, from the family Calliphoridae, is responsible for causing most myiases in domesticated animals in Brazil. As alternatives to conventional treatments, essential oils (EOs) could possibly be used as natural control of ectoparasites. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro activity of EOs from Salvia sclarea L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Lavandula hybrida Reverchon, Citrus bergamia Risso, Citrus paradisi L., Juniperus virginiana L., Copaifera reticulata Ducke, Illicium verum Hook f., Pelargonium roseum, Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt, Cymbopogon flexuosus Steud, Eugenia caryophyllus Spreng, Cinnamomum cassia Presl, Thymus vulgaris L. and Origanum vulgare L. against third-instar larvae of C. hominivorax. To evaluate the mortality rate, filter paper tests were performed at different concentrations and verified after 24 h and 48 h. Essential oils of T. vulgaris, O. vulgare and I. verum induced 100% mortality in the screening test, and their main active components (thymol, carvacrol and anethol, respectively) were also tested alone. In this new test, lethal concentrations (LC50) after 24 h and 48 h, respectively, were 407.1 and 314.2 µg.cm-² for T. vulgaris, 540.9 and 253.8 µg.cm-² for O. vulgare, 314.2 µg.cm-² (after 48 h) for I. verum, 255.6 and 102.3 µg.cm-² for thymol, 970.5 and 931.1 µg.cm−2 for carvacrol and 559.4 µg.cm−2 (after 48 h) for anethol. These results showed the potential of these EOs and their main components for development of ectoparasiticides for veterinary use, especially T. vulgaris EO and thymol.

Evolution of acaricide resistance of Rhipicephalus decoloratus on commercial farms in South Africa.

The development of tick resistance to chemical control plays a major role in the increasing global economic impact of ticks on cattle farming. Reports on acaricide resistance of Rhipicephalus decoloratus, endemic to Africa and South Africa, are relatively few compared to the closely related and globally distributed Rhipicephalus microplus. In South Africa, ectoparasite control became the sole responsibility of each commercial producer when compulsory dipping was phased out from 1984. Different acaricidal management strategies resulted in the simultaneous development of resistance to various acaricide groups. The establishment of a Pesticide Resistance Testing Facility provided the opportunity to test Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) populations, submitted from all over South Africa, for resistance where failure of chemical control was experienced. The number of populations resistant to cypermethrin (CM) was significantly higher than those tested as resistant to amitraz (AM), or chlorfenvinphos (CFVP). No significant difference was found between the number of populations resistant to AM and CFVP. The evolution of R. decoloratus resistance at the end of a 12year period indicated a stable but high prevalence of 90% overall resistance to CM. The same trend was seen for AM-resistant R. decoloratus populations but at a lower level of just over 40%. In contrast, CFVP resistant R. decoloratus populations showed a decreasing trend with near-total reversion to susceptibility. Multi-resistance was present in more than 50% of populations tested with the highest incidence in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape provinces.

Amitraz Poisoning: A Case Report of an Insufficient Acknowledged Poison in Nigeria

Amitraz is a pharmacological product widely used in the veterinary setting, in the control of ectoparasites (e.g., ticks and mites), in the treatment of demodicos in dogs, cattle etc, and in the agricultural setting as a pesticide. There have been a limited number of cases of amitraz poisoning published in the literature, as it is often under-recognised and mistaken for organophosphate poisoning (OPP). So far, there has been no specific antidote for its management. However, case reports on successfully managed patients are available and may assist doctors and other medical practitioners in the management of such cases. This index case is that of an 18-year-old male secondary school leaver who ingested an unknown quantity of an amitraz containing insecticide in a suicidal attempt and was brought to Enugu State University Teaching Hospital about 3.5 hours later, following a prior visit to a clinic close to his home. He received both symptomatic and supportive treatment, recovered fully within 3 days and was discharged on the sixth day and referred to psychiatric department for further supportive management. It is pertinent to avoid misdiagnosis as it may lead to respiratory failure, necessitating the use of ventilators which are not available in a significant number of hospitals in Nigeria.