The future of veterinary parasitology

Current evidence suggests research in veterinary parasitology is in decline despite its importance. This is particularly true in the UK where research funds have been diverted into BSE. Decline in interest in veterinary paras itology is at least in part due to the success of major pharmaceutical comp anies in producing a range of effective and safe anti-parasitic drugs. Rese arch is needed because of the effects of parasites on animal welfare and th e economic costs of parasites. However, there is little information on the actual costs of animal parasites. Another major reason for research is the development of drug resistance in protozoa, helminths and arthropods of vet erinary importance. This is a serious problem particularly for sheep and go ats in the southern hemisphere. A prioritised list of research requirements is suggested: (i) new drugs; (ii) resistance management; (iii) vaccines; ( iv) breeding for resistance; (v) improved diagnostics; (vi) zoonoses; (vii) global warming and parasites. There is a major political challenge to rais e the profile of veterinary parasitology and thus the funding essential for its advancement and the continued welfare and productivity of animals. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.