Mosquito management for livestock

To help combat the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis infecting pigs and horses new resources on mosquito management are available. Resources includes a template to write your own mosquito management plan, as well as a simple factsheet and a more in-depth guide to give information around mosquito control including environmental management and chemical control.

Resources can be found on the farm biosecurity website (https://www.farmbiosecurity. com.au). Simply search for ‘mosquito’ and you will find links to both mosquito management for horses as well as mosquito management matters which will link through to information on controlling mosquitoes around piggeries.

The principles of integrated mosquito management will be the same for all livestock species. However, you should ensure that any chemicals used on stock are registered for use in that species and follow any withhold periods listed on the labels.

High mosquito numbers are not the only issue this year. Many producers are blaming mosquito attacks for deaths or illness in their sheep. It is certainly true that mosquitoes can spread Mycoplasma ovis which can result in anaemia and possibly death in sheep and goats. However, anaemia can also be caused by Barber’s pole worm, which is very prevalent this year.

If you are having issues in your sheep, it is important to investigate the cause to ensure the right treatment.

Some mosquito-borne diseases such as Murray Valley Encephalitis can also affect humans. For more information on mosquito borne illnesses in humans contact NSW health or your doctor.

If you are having issues with livestock illness, or to discuss mosquito-borne diseases or management get in touch by phone, email or popping into your local office.