4 August 2026: Bovine lungworm cases diagnosed despite dry weather conditions
Updated 1 September 2026
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/alerts-for-vets-emerging-and-endemic-disease-alert-system-eedas/4-august-2026-bovine-lungworm-cases-diagnosed-despite-dry-weather-conditions
Situation
Bovine lungworm cases diagnosed despite dry weather conditions.
Details
Despite the very dry weather in much of Great Britain, we have confirmed lungworm (Dictyocaulus viviparus) in recent days, including as the cause of death in a 9-month-old steer received at our Starcross site in Devon.
Although unexpected, these cases highlight the unpredictable nature of lungworm and the importance of vaccinating stock prior to potential exposure, maintaining awareness of risk and monitoring for signs of coughing, particularly in first season grazers.
Practitioners across Great Britain should be aware of the clinical signs of parasitic pneumonia (husk) as it is highly likely that more cases will be seen following rainfall.
The APHA is keen to support the investigation of cases where there is Suspected Lack of Expected Efficacy (SLEE; treatment failure) of lungworm treatment in herds where lungworm is suspected or has been confirmed. Practitioners should contact their local Veterinary Investigation Centre (VIC) or Surveillance Pathology Partner to discuss potential cases further, including suitable testing and investigation approaches.
Further information
Find more information about:
- gut and lung worms – COWS (Control of Worms Sustainably)
- cattle and sheep anthelmintics: reporting suspected lack of expected efficacy
Message sent from the Surveillance Intelligence Unit SIU@apha.gov.uk