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M Atif Ismail
MULTAN, Nov 16 (APP): Floodwater contamination has increased the risk of liver fluke infection among livestock in South Punjab, posing a serious threat to animal health
and productivity.
Cattle farmers are under immense stress due to disease in these areas.
Responding to APP’s query about the issue, Dr. Jamshaid, Deputy Director Livestock, Jalalpur Pirwala, said liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) was a significant parasite affecting cattle, buffaloes, and sheep. After floods, the disease spreads rapidly as snails which was the intermediate hosts, multiply in stagnant water and on wet grass. When animals graze in such areas, they ingest the parasites, which enter the liver and jaw, causing inflammation known locally as Bottled Jaws.
He explained that many farmers mistakenly consider the disease as “Gul Ghotu”,
assuming it affects the throat, whereas it actually causes swelling in the jaw due
to fluid accumulation and liver damage. The condition can lead to weakness,
reduced productivity, and even death if not treated in time.
He said studies show that liver fluke infections were common , with prevalence
ranging between 10 and 50 percent in various regions. Mortality was higher among
sheep, while cattle were relatively more resistant. However, chronic infections
in cattle cause substantial economic losses due to weight loss, reduced milk
production, and poor growth.
He said, typical signs of liver fluke infection include swelling under the jaw, pale
mucous membranes, weight loss despite adequate feeding, weakness, and diarrhea
with a foul smell. In dairy animals, milk production drops sharply, affecting farm income.
Dr Jamshaid advised farmers not to graze their animals in waterlogged areas or on grass
where snails were found. He emphasized that clean and safe drinking water should
be provided from protected sources and that animals should be moved to higher
ground to avoid contaminated areas.
He further suggested that all water troughs and grazing areas should be disinfected
after floods. Farmers were urged to consult qualified veterinarians immediately
if symptoms appear, as timely treatment ensures complete recovery.
“Preventive measures, de-worming, and coordination with livestock departments
for vaccination are essential to protect animals from post-flood diseases,” he added.