Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
The future of veterinary parasitology.
- Journal:
- Veterinary parasitology
- Year:
- 2001
- Authors:
- Coles, G C
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Science · United Kingdom
Plain-English summary
Research into veterinary parasitology, which studies parasites that affect animals, is currently declining, especially in the UK, where funding has shifted to other areas like BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy). This decline is partly due to the success of pharmaceutical companies in creating effective anti-parasitic medications. However, it's important to continue researching parasites because they can harm animal welfare and lead to significant economic losses. Additionally, there is growing concern about drug resistance in parasites, particularly affecting sheep and goats in warmer regions. To address these issues, experts suggest focusing on developing new medications, managing resistance, creating vaccines, and improving diagnostic methods, among other priorities.
Abstract
Current evidence suggests research in veterinary parasitology is in decline despite its importance. This is particularly true in the UK where research funds have been diverted into BSE. Decline in interest in veterinary parasitology is at least in part due to the success of major pharmaceutical companies in producing a range of effective and safe anti-parasitic drugs. Research is needed because of the effects of parasites on animal welfare and the economic costs of parasites. However, there is little information on the actual costs of animal parasites. Another major reason for research is the development of drug resistance in protozoa, helminths and arthropods of veterinary importance. This is a serious problem particularly for sheep and goats in the southern hemisphere. A prioritised list of research requirements is suggested: (i) new drugs; (ii) resistance management; (iii) vaccines; (iv) breeding for resistance; (v) improved diagnostics; (vi) zoonoses; (vii) global warming and parasites. There is a major political challenge to raise the profile of veterinary parasitology and thus the funding essential for its advancement and the continued welfare and productivity of animals.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11516577/