South Island ahead of North in controlling sheep measles

South Island farmers are currently achieving greater success than those in the North in controlling Taenia ovis (sheep measles), Rural News reports. Ovis is caused by the T. ovis tapeworm. Although it poses no risk to human health, it can cause blemishes in sheep meat, which is undesirable for consumers in New Zealand and overseas. Michelle Simpson, Ovis Management project manager, says sheep measles can be controlled when farmers take the simple steps of regularly treating their dogs for Taenia tapeworm.