Parasite problems in animals after a flood

After a flood, animals can be particularly susceptible to certain types of parasites. It's important that you recognise parasite problems when they occur, and take action early to keep your animals healthy.

While flooding may drown ticks, tick numbers and the risk of tick fever can increase with the associated wet and warm weather.  

Following floods or major rain events, the populations of biting insects - such as buffalo fly, midges, mosquitoes, stable fly and other biting flies - usually increase significantly.  

There may also be an increase in worm infestations in the immediate post-flood period due to the moist conditions. 

Prolonged wet and hot weather produces conditions favourable to flystrike.  

This guide discusses some of the main parasite problems that can occur in animals after a flood, and provides information to help you prevent or treat problems.