Faecal Egg Count (FEC) and qPCR Test Kit for Sheep and Ruminants

Our Farm Animal Parasite Screen helps you keep your animals healthy by identifying and managing parasites. Here’s what it includes:

What We Offer:

Faecal Egg Screen (FEC) / Wormcount:

• Detects a wide range of gastrointestinal parasites.
• Includes parasites like Nematodirus, Teladorsagia (Ostertagia), and protozoa such as Eimeria.
• Helps you understand the parasite load in your animals.

Haemonchus Contortus Detection via PCR:

• Identifies Haemonchus contortus accurately, even in low numbers.
• Early detection helps you manage and control this parasite effectively. as when its detected enhanced monitoring and management effort are required as part of the parasite control strategy to reduce the likelihood of production losses and fatalities.
• Prevents potential production losses and fatalities.

Why This Matters:

• Early Detection: Find parasites before they become a big problem, saving you time and money.
• Accurate Results: Advanced methods ensure precise detection.
• Better Management: Get a full picture of the parasitic burden to take targeted actions.

The kits come with full instructions of the requirements, and we recommend they are read and followed exactly.

Report 1 – Faecal Egg Screen (FEC) / Wormcount

Tested and issued the same working day the sample arrives into the lab.  The worm egg screen will identify nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms) and some protozoans.

Report 2 – Haemonchus Contortus PCR Test

Tested and issued within 5 working day the sample arrives into the lab. Using PCR technology, a separate report will be provided detailing the presence or absence of Haemonchus Contortus.

Haemonchus Contortus PCR Test

The Haemonchus Contortus PCR test is a vital component of our Farm Animal Parasite Screen. This test specifically identifies the presence of Haemonchus contortus, a significant parasite that affects livestock. Here’s how it works and why it’s important:

What is Haemonchus Contortus?

• Haemonchus contortus, also known as the barber’s pole worm, is a blood-sucking parasite found in the stomachs of ruminants such as sheep, goats, and cattle.
• This parasite can cause severe anemia, weight loss, and even death, particularly in young or weak animals.

How the PCR Test Works:

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a laboratory technique used to amplify and detect specific DNA sequences.
• In this test, a small sample (such as faeces) from the animal is processed to extract any DNA present.
• The PCR process then amplifies the DNA of Haemonchus contortus, if present, making it detectable even in very low numbers.
• This ensures highly accurate results, confirming the presence or absence of this parasite.

Benefits of the Haemonchus Contortus PCR Test:

• Early Detection: Identifies the parasite at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention.
• Accurate Results: Provides precise detection, even when the parasite is present in low numbers.
• Informed Management: Enables farmers to implement targeted parasite control measures, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
• Prevention of Losses: Helps prevent production losses and fatalities associated with Haemonchus contortus infestations.

Importance for Farmers:

• When Haemonchus contortus is detected, it necessitates enhanced monitoring and management efforts as part of the parasite control strategy. This is crucial to reduce the likelihood of production losses and fatalities, ensuring the health and productivity of your livestock.

There is a ‘use by date’ on each kit which MUST be adhered to.  The use by date will  be 6 weeks from date of order.  Unfortunately, no refunds can be given for late submission or unused tests however please contact the office to discuss options if this occurs.

This kit has been designed to provide ultimate sample protection during transit, whilst also minimising our environmental impact as far as practically possible.  The kit includes:

• One recyclable padded envelope, made with 60% recycled material
• Free tracked return 24hr postage
• One white paper laboratory request form (worm count test) with instruction sheet
• One blue paper laboratory request form (giardia & cryptosporidium) with  instruction sheet and use by date
• Two recyclable sample collection boxes in resealable write-on panelled bags
• Two biodegradable second sealable bags
• One biodegradable natural wood sampling spoon