Current Status for Controlling the Overlooked Caprine Fasciolosis

Simple Summary Retaining sustainable agricultural systems is essential to feed the expanding population. Helminth parasite infections impact livestock production values and yields, including infections in goats, which are often overlooked. There is a requirement to collate caprine-specific knowledge surrounding fasciolosis, caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica (liver flukes). Current liver fluke control methods include drug application and pasture management. This review aims to outline goat-specific fasciolosis vaccine development and the potential for alternative control methods. The disease fasciolosis is caused by the liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and F. gigantica, which infect a wide range of mammals and production livestock, including goats. These flatworm parasites are globally distributed and predicted to cost the livestock industry a now conservative USD 3 billion per year in treatment and lowered on-farm productivity. Infection poses a risk to animal welfare and results in lowered fertility rates and reduced production yields of meat, milk and wool. This zoonotic disease is estimated to infect over 600 million animals and up to 2.4 million humans. Current and future control is threatened with the global emergence of flukes resistant to anthelmintics. Drug resistance calls for immediate on-farm parasite management to ensure treatments are effective and re-infection rates are kept low, while a sustainable long-term control method, such as a vaccine, is being developed. Despite the recent expansion of the goat industry, particularly in developing countries, there are limited studies on goat-focused vaccine control studies and the effectiveness of drug treatments. There is a requirement to collate caprine-specific fasciolosis knowledge. This review will present the current status of liver fluke caprine infections and potential control methods for application in goat farming.

Automated summary

Maintaining sustainable agricultural systems is crucial for feeding the growing population. Parasite infections impact livestock production, including goats. Current liver fluke control methods involve drug application and pasture management.