Christmas pinkeye warning

HUNTER Local Land Services (LLS) have reported growing cases of pinkeye in the Hunter and are advising landholders to prepare for a potential increase in cases over the next few weeks and look at treatment options.

Pinkeye is a bacterial infection of the eye that causes inflammation and in severe cases, temporary or permanent blindness.

District Vet Jim Kerr said, “those who haven’t vaccinated against pinkeye might be wise to consider how and where they might source antibiotic eye ointment to treat affected animals if cases occur over the inconvenient Christmas and New Year period.”

“These very effective ointments can only be obtained from veterinarians. Alternative antibiotic medication can generally be bought at produce merchants,” said Dr Kerr.

“Similarly, it might be prudent to consider where you might obtain pour-on fly repellants or insecticidal ear tags during the holiday break, as fly control is an important part of controlling a pinkeye outbreak.”

Pinkeye thrives in hot weather, when cattle shade together under trees.

“Most cattle producers will be familiar with pinkeye but may not know how best to treat it and minimise it’s spread within a herd,” said Dr Kerr.

“Pinkeye is a painful debilitating condition that can severely affect animal productivity.

“For more information it is recommended producers contact their local vet or Hunter LLS on 1300 795 299.”

For more information on Pinkeye prevention, diagnosis and treatment, click here or speak to your private or district veterinarian.