Articles

Fasciolosis caused by liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, is a potentially significant threat to the livestock. It results in substantial economic losses within the livestock industry. This parasitic disease affects a variety of animals including sheep, goats, cattle, and buffalos. This has the potential of transmission even to humans as a zoonotic disease. Snails play an important role in the life cycle of Fasciola hepatica. Clinical symptoms include anemia, reduced production and even death in severely infected animals. Diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical signs, post-mortem examinations and some laboratory diagnostic tests like ELISA. Treatment is with Triclabendazole as the drug of choice. Control needs coordinated measures involving herd health programs, snail population control, regular deworming, and maintaining proper hygiene.