A zinc-containing intraruminal device for facial eczema control in lambs

Authors: Munday R, Stirnemann M, Towers NR, McDonald RM, Fowke EA, Wesselink C, Ford AJ, Smith BL, Thompson AM, O'Donnell K
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 45, Issue 3, pp 93-98, Jun 1997
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Sheep
Subject Terms: Biosecurity, Inflammation, Integument/skin/wool/hair/fur/feather, Disease/defect, Disease control/eradication, Epidemiology, Mycotoxicosis, Liver/hepatic disease, Fungal/yeast, Photosensitivity, Toxicology, Treatment/therapy, Trace elements, Minerals/elememts
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: A zinc-containing intraruminal device has been developed for protecting lambs against facial eczema. The rate of release of zinc from the device has been optimised, and its safety in use established. Under both experimental and farm conditions, the device gave excellent protection against the liver injury associated with facial eczema. The device relies upon erosion for release of zinc, and disappears completely when its charge of zinc has been released, leaving no metal or plastic residue in the rumen. This device has the potential to greatly ameliorate the problem of facial eczema in New Zealand.

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