Epidemiology of hypodermosis in Spain: benefits of serology over clinical examination
Webster, K.
Veterinary Record 139(20): 504
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 8950828 Document Number: 466095
The use of serological methods such as ELISA to monitor warble fly (Hypoderma bovis) infestations is discussed. Since positive serology correlates with warble fly activity and not directly to clinical status of individual animals, and since infested animals will take about 3-6 weeks to seroconvert, the timing of serological testing is important. Serological methods are more sensitive indicators of warble fly activity than clinical examination and they allow early detection and treatment of infestations during autumn before the appearance of many of the features of the life cycle which have welfare and economic implications.