EIDS Reveals Concerning Rise in Parasite Egg Counts in Horses

New research from Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) and its collaborators is now available to read open access in the Equine Veterinary Journal, and reveals a worrying increase in parasite egg counts.
Their latest publication “Reasons to be fearful? Rising proportions of positive faecal worm egg counts among UK horses (2007–2023)” analysed faecal worm egg count test (FWECT) data collected by UK laboratories over 16 years (2007–2023), revealing a concerning rise in parasite egg counts in horses.
This study, based on quarterly summaries of laboratory testing data assessed FWEC testing methods and thresholds. Thresholds varied, with common reporting categories including >0 to <100 eggs per gram (epg) and ≥200 epg. Regression analysis confirmed that egg counts have significantly increased over time, after accounting for differences between laboratories.
These findings emphasise the growing challenge of anthelmintic resistance in equine parasite control and highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to refine testing and management strategies.
Lead author Fleur Whitlock, MRCVS says “This paper highlights the remarkable achievements made possible through two decades of sustained surveillance efforts, showcasing how data contributions and analysis can deepen our understanding and drive progress. It emphasises the critical importance of advancing the monitoring and interpretation of surveillance data to better address industry challenges, such as the growing threat of anthelmintic resistance”
While improved testing practices may contribute to more positive identifications, such findings suggest a potential crisis in equine health, as increased egg shedding could signal rising parasite burdens and heighten concerns over resistance. This data highlights an urgent need for comprehensive investigations into the underlying factors driving these trends. Immediate action is essential to develop effective strategies for managing parasite burdens and addressing the threat of resistance in the equine population.
Read the article here
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