Facial Eczema Animal Health

This can cause liver damage, photosensitivity, reduced productivity, reproductive issues, and cattle-specific effects.

What is Facial Eczema?

Facial Eczema (FE) is a serious livestock disease caused by the ingestion of spores from the fungus Pithomyces chartarum, which thrives in warm, humid conditions. These spores produce sporidesmin, a toxin that damages the liver and bile ducts of affected animals, leading to photosensitivity, skin lesions, and reduced productivity. While the disease primarily affects sheep, cattle, and deer, it can have severe economic consequences for New Zealand farmers if not properly managed.

How Facial Eczema Affects Animals & Farm Profits

Impact on Animal Health:

Liver Damage: The toxin causes liver inflammation, reducing the animal’s ability to process toxins and nutrients.
Photosensitivity: Affected animals develop painful skin lesions, particularly on exposed areas like ears and faces.
Reduced Productivity: Severe cases lead to weight loss, decreased milk production, and, in extreme cases, death.
Reproductive Issues: Liver damage can cause fertility problems and impact overall herd health.
Cattle-Specific Effects: In dairy and beef cattle, FE can lead to reduced milk yield, slower weight gain, and severe liver damage, impacting long-term productivity.

Economic Impact on Farms:

Decreased Milk and Meat Yields: Dairy and beef farmers may see reduced milk production and weight gain, leading to financial losses.
Increased Veterinary Costs: Treatment and prevention strategies add to farm expenses.
Stock Losses: Severe outbreaks can lead to increased mortality rates.
Market Impacts: Subclinical cases can affect growth rates and carcass quality, reducing profitability.

When Does Facial Eczema Occur in New Zealand?

Facial Eczema thrives in late summer and autumn when:

Night temperatures remain above 12°C.
Humidity is high, often exceeding 90%.
Pasture conditions support fungal spore growth.

Regions most affected include Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Manawatū, and Hawke’s Bay, although outbreaks can occur across the country during warm, wet seasons.

Prevention Strategies for Facial Eczema

Pasture Management:

Spore Monitoring: Regular pasture spore count testing helps assess risk levels.
Grazing Management: Avoiding low-grazed pasture reduces spore ingestion.
Sowing Resistant Pastures: Planting clovers, and other fungal-resistant species can help. High-endophyte ryegrass may increase the risk as it can create a denser canopy, retaining moisture and providing an ideal environment for fungal spore growth.
Fungicide Application: Spraying pastures with fungicides such as carbendazim can help reduce Pithomyces chartarum spore levels, lowering the risk of FE outbreaks.

Pasture Spraying:

Spraying the pasture with a fungicide will slow the development of the fungus and subsequent production of spores.
Apply only when pasture has confirmed spore counts below 20,000 and is green and growing.
Spraying should cover all areas, including fence lines and under hedges.
Check spore counts after spraying and before grazing to ensure pastures are below acceptable levels.
Pasture will be safe for 4-6 weeks, after which it will need to be resprayed or monitored with spore counting.
Minimise the build-up of soft litter by avoiding topping and managing pasture quality in November/December.
Avoid grazing below 4cm pasture height during summer months; use supplements to reduce grazing pressure if needed.

Nutritional & Supplement Strategies:

Zinc Supplementation:
- Zinc boluses or drenches protect the liver from sporidesmin damage.
- Zinc can also be added to water troughs or feed.
Mycotoxin Binders: Some feed additives help reduce the toxin’s impact.

Breeding for Resistance:

Genetic selection for facial eczema-tolerant stock has been effective in reducing susceptibility.

Treatment Options for Affected Animals

If an animal shows symptoms of Facial Eczema, early intervention is crucial:

Remove Affected Livestock from Direct Sunlight: Photosensitive animals should be placed in shaded areas or housed.
Provide Supportive Care:
- Antioxidants & Vitamin Supplements: Help support liver function.
- High-Energy Diets: Reduce stress on damaged livers.
Consult a Veterinarian: Severe cases may require anti-inflammatory treatments and close monitoring.

Facial Eczema Risk Levels

Conclusion

Facial Eczema poses a significant threat to livestock health and farm profitability in New Zealand. By implementing preventative measures, monitoring spore levels, and using effective treatment strategies, farmers can mitigate the risks associated with this disease. Early detection and proactive management are key to reducing economic losses and maintaining a healthy, productive herd.

Key Takeaways

✅ Monitor pasture spore counts regularly.

✅ Use zinc supplementation and mycotoxin binders.

✅ Spray pastures with fungicides like carbendazim.

✅ Breed livestock for increased resistance.

✅ Ensure proper grazing management to reduce fungal spores.

By staying informed and proactive, New Zealand farmers can protect their livestock and profits from the devastating effects of Facial Eczema.

Facial Eczema in New Zealand: Understanding, Prevention, and Treatment