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Disease Management

# Liver Fluke Disease in East African Cattle

Fasciolosis is endemic across much of East Africa, causing chronic production losses that often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.

SA
System Admin
22 August 2025
7 min read
Article #04
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## What Is Liver Fluke Disease?

Liver fluke disease (fasciolosis) is caused by the parasitic flatworm Fasciola gigantica, which is the predominant species in East Africa. The parasite has a complex life cycle involving a freshwater snail intermediate host, making it particularly prevalent in areas with swampy grazing land, irrigation schemes, and seasonal flooding.

Adult flukes live in the bile ducts of the liver, where they feed on blood and cause progressive tissue damage. A single animal can harbour hundreds of flukes, each living for several years if untreated.

## Signs and Symptoms

Liver fluke disease is often described as a "silent thief" because its effects are chronic and gradual. Farmers may not recognise the disease until animals are severely affected. Common signs include:

- Progressive weight loss despite adequate feeding
- Reduced milk production in dairy animals
- Bottle jaw — soft swelling under the jaw caused by fluid accumulation
- Pale membranes — anaemia visible in the eyes and gums
- Rough coat and poor body condition
- Diarrhoea in some cases, particularly during acute infection

## Economic Impact

The economic losses from fasciolosis are substantial. Studies in East Africa have estimated production losses of 10–25% in affected herds, including reduced milk yield, poor weight gain, reduced fertility, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. Liver condemnation at slaughter adds further direct losses.

## Treatment and Prevention

Effective treatment requires a flukicide — a drug specifically active against liver flukes. Not all dewormers treat flukes. Sanga Worm & Fluke Drench® contains Oxyclozanide, which is effective against both mature and immature flukes, combined with Levamisole for concurrent roundworm control.

### Strategic Dosing

In endemic areas, strategic dosing at the end of the rainy season (when snail populations peak) and again 8–10 weeks later provides the most cost-effective control. Reducing access to swampy grazing areas and improving drainage can also help break the transmission cycle.

SA
System Admin
Sanga Vet. Chem. Ltd

This article was written by a member of the Sanga Vet. Chem. Ltd team. For specific veterinary advice, please consult a qualified veterinarian.

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