Facial Eczema - Problems and Successes in Control

Facial eczema is the most Important mycotoxin affecting New Zealand lIvestock. I t is a partrcular problem in the lower lying warmer and morster areas of the northern North Island where conditions are favourable to rapid fungal growth and sporulat ion during autumn. In severe years animal deaths and depressed production can lead to losses exceeding $60mlllion, average losses are estimated to exceed $20 million anually. Production losses. especial ly despressions in ewe fertility, can occur in the absence of clinical symptoms so most farmers grossly underestimate the financial losses Inflicted by this disease. Research has led to a number of control methods includmg the identification and awldance of toxic pastures, fungicides, zinc dosing and selection for more resistant stock. However these are not widely accepted by the farming industry because of costs, high labour requirements and a disinclination to disturb normal management practices.