New test for barber pole worm

Researchers  have developed a new test to determine the predominance of Haemonchus contortus (barber pole worm) in a given herd's worm population. 

The new lectin staining test is based on a peanut agglutinin that binds to eggs of the parasite and can be easily visualized with a microscope using ultraviolet light. It is an improved version of a previous technology developed by scientists in Australia.

The test was developed by microbiologists and veterinary doctors at Oregon State University and the University of Georgia, and is now available through those institutions.   The test requires only a small amount of feces, and results are available in as little as two days.

Anyone interested in obtaining the test can get information on sampling, test results, and fees from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University or from Bob Storey at the Department of Infectious Diseases at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine .

Read abstract in Journal of Veterinary Parasitology
Read University of Georgia article