The Parasight

Welcome to the The Parasight. Providing seasonal parasite-threat updates from the post mortem room with vet Ben Strugnell BVM&S Cert PM MRCVS from Farm Post Mortems, who will share timely, on-the-ground footage.

Whilst the footage is UK-based, many of the parasite challenges and management plans shown will also be relevant to Irish farms too. These case studies may help you in your day-to-day work.

Worms, fluke & housing: what to know - November 2025

Description: this month, Ben explains how the recent change in weather is affecting worm burdens on pasture, including the potential treatment options to use during this period. He then describes when shearlings develop immunity to worms and the various factors this depends on. Ben also discusses a case of fluke in a ewe and the importance of testing rather than routinely treating animals. Finally, he talks about making the transition to housing calves as smooth as possible and highlights the growing issue of wormer resistance in cattle.

Autumn challenges: pneumonia, worms & acorns - October 2025

Description: this month, Ben discusses the rise in cases of pasteurellosis in lambs. He explains the causes of pasteurella infection and the various stress factors that can worsen its effects. He then talks through the correlation between worms and pasteurellosis. Ben also highlights the risk of acorn poisoning for grazing livestock this autumn. Finally, he shares key considerations for managing lambs going away on winter keep and gives a reminder about quarantine drenching all incoming sheep.