Bunostomiases

helminthic diseases of ruminants, caused by nematodes of the genus Bunostomum. Bunostomum infestations are widespread, sometimes enzotic. The ova of the parasite are discharged with the feces of diseased animals into the external environment, where motile larvae issue from them. Penetrating the body of a healthy animal through the skin (less frequently through feed and water), the larvae migrate along the blood vessels and enter the intestine, where they attach themselves to the mucosa, traumatizing it and causing hemorrhage. The disease manifests itself clinically only in young stock. Affected animals grow thin and develop edemas and exhausting bouts of diarrhea. Mass murrain of lambs is possible. Phenothiazine and carbon tetrachloride are used in treatment. Prophylaxis includes change of pasture, observance of feeding and watering hygiene, and care of the animal’s skin.