AUSTIN Davis Biologics has launched EquiStatus Tapeworm, a service helping veterinary surgeons and suitably qualified animal medicines advisers (SQPs) investigate whether tapeworm treatments are working in groups of horses.

The launch follows reports of reduced effectiveness of anti-tapeworm wormers in UK studies. Reduced effectiveness warrants investigation but does not, by itself, establish resistance. Tapeworm infection can cause serious health problems, including colic, while unnecessary worming can contribute to drug resistance. The service aims to support appropriate treatment and identify situations requiring further investigation.

Designed for groups, such as horses sharing a yard, EquiStatus Tapeworm follows five stages: screening, interpretation, targeted investigation, action and monitoring. Initial screening uses saliva tests, such as EquiSal, or blood tests to detect antibodies associated with tapeworm infection. Practitioners assess results across the group alongside clinical history, previous treatments and management practices.

Routine faecal egg counts are insufficiently sensitive for general tapeworm screening.

However, where concerns arise, a specialist flotation method assesses tapeworm egg shedding in samples collected before and after treatment.

Findings guide changes to management and worm-control practices, potentially including further treatment and testing of alternative wormers.

Veterinary supervision is required where reduced efficacy is detected.

Follow-up testing helps assess whether these measures have improved control.

Professor Jacqui Matthews, the company’s director of veterinary science, said: “EquiStatus Tapeworm was developed after vets and SQPs asked us for a practical way to identify groups of horses where a tapeworm treatment might not be working as expected and to know what to do next.”

Managing director Dr Corrine Austin emphasised that different tests provide complementary information, helping practitioners build a fuller picture and monitor whether interventions are working.

Groups without indications for further investigation can continue routine monitoring.

EquiStatus Tapeworm is available through participating equine veterinary practices, SQPs and directly from Austin Davis Biologics.