Ivermectin Control of Bovine Hypodermosis ; Le contrôle du varron par l'ivermectine : éradication de l'hypodermose bovine

Abstract

Bovine hypodermosis (warble fly infestation) is a disease of cattle caused by flies whose larvae specifically parasitize cattle. This disease limits growth and milk production and seriously affects animal health. The results of studies conducted by INRAE and its partners have greatly contributed to the implementation of a program to eradicate hypodermosis in France. The disease has been totally under control since 2000.Bovine hypodermosis is caused by Hypoderma bovis and Hypoderma lineatum, non-biting flies, whose larvae specifically parasitize cattle. They cross the skin, migrate into deep tissues over several months, reach the dorsal subcutaneous tissue, where they cause abscesses, and finally pierce the skin of the animal migrating into the external environment.These parasites cause general immunosuppression, limiting the growth of young cattle and reducing milk production in cows. Further, they cause carcasses to be peeled at slaughter, produce serious damage to hides, and adversely affect animal welfare.In the 1980s, INRAE, together with Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse and other partners, conducted an ambitious research program, which sought to establish the epidemiology of Hypoderma species and identify a systematic treatment of animals without endangering consumers, breeders and animals. These essential conditions for implementing an effective strategy for controlling hypodermosis were achieved by administering a microdose of ivermectin and developing an immunodiagnosis that can be used on a very large scale with hypodermine C.Following proof of concept, achieved through the deployment of a bovine hypodermosis control plan in Brittany and then in Burgundy, the national control plan was gradually implemented throughout France by the Ministry of Agriculture and stakeholders. Within three years of implementation, the plan has led to control of this parasitic disease, and indeed to the disappearance of clinical cases of warble fly infestation. Thus, the outcome of studies conducted by INRAE and its ...