Liver Health and FMD Vaccination Efficacy

Recent studies indicate that Fasciola hepatica does not merely cause physical damage to the liver but acts as an immunoregulator that alters the host's ability to mount a robust vaccine-induced immune response. In cattle, while total immunoglobulin (IgG) shows little difference between trial d control, infections with F. hepatica have been shown to specifically reduce IgG1 antibody titers and decrease the avidity of these antibodies within 28 days post FH infestation. As IgG1 is a critical component of the response to FMDV protein antigens, this reduction undermines the overall quality and protective capacity of the vaccine.

The impact on immunity is even more pronounced in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), a species often inhabiting environments conducive to high parasite burdens. Field evidence indicates that F. hepatica-infected buffaloes exhibit:

• A ~50% reduction in virus-neutralizing antibody titers.
• A ~38% decrease in the avidity of specific IgG antibodies.
• A 36% decline in total IgG levels compared to non-infected counterparts.
• A significant reduction in the proportion of animals maintaining antibody titers above the standard protective threshold.

Given these findings, strategic liver parasite control is a prerequisite for ensuring optimal vaccine performance and achieving sustainable herd immunity. Veterinarians are advised to integrate robust fasciolicide programmes into livestock management strategies, particularly in the lead-up to mandatory FMD vaccination, to mitigate the immunomodulatory risks posed by F. hepatica infection.

Flukazole C (G3533, Act 36/1947), contains two active ingredients - triclabendazole and oxfendazole - which have a synergistic action.

This synergistic action has been proven to provide more effective control of especially the early immature stage of liver fluke (when it invades the liver).

This makes Flukazole C the ideal product to use in these circumstances.