Haemonchus contortus, better known as the red stomach worm, is the most dangerous parasite for alpacas and llamas in the Netherlands. It is a highly fertile worm, capable of producing 10,000 eggs per day.
The parasite lives in the abomasum of the alpaca or llama and feeds on blood. The more worms present in the animal’s abomasum, the more blood loss occurs. Severe infections therefore lead to anemia, which may result in illness or death. In cases of severe infection, there is often only 24 hours to turn the situation around.
Infections with Haemonchus typically occur from June into autumn, depending on weather conditions. However, in recent years infections have also been observed at other times of the year.
The symptoms of an infection with the red stomach worm are often fatigue, weight loss, subcutaneous edema, anemia, pale mucous membranes, and dry feces. The most important test for anemia is checking the mucous membranes around the eye. These should be pink, but in cases of anemia they appear pale or even white.
The barber’s pole worm can be detected through fecal examination. At Worm&Co, we routinely check for this worm. It is important to perform worm examinations frequently (4 times a year) so that an infection can be detected in time and serious consequences can be prevented.
If your alpaca shows symptoms of an infection with the Haemonchus worm, the infection can be fatal within 24 hours. In such cases, we advise you to contact your veterinarian immediately.
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