A new diagnostic test developed in partnership between Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and Awanui Veterinary will give farmers and veterinarians earlier, more accurate information about parasite infections in their stock.
The DNA-based test, called Fast Worm ID – GIN PCR, identifies parasite species directly from faecal samples, with results available in under three working days. Traditional larval culture tests can take up to two weeks and often miss early infections, particularly with high-impact species like Barber’s pole worm. Detecting parasite DNA rather than waiting for eggs to hatch provides a clearer picture of infection much sooner.
Parasites remain a major challenge for sheep and beef farmers. Barber’s pole worm in sheep and Ostertagia in calves can cause significant losses before faecal egg counts rise enough to signal a problem. By the time issues are detected, animals may already have lost condition and treatment decisions become urgent. Earlier species identification helps farmers act before those impacts occur.
Dr Cara Brosnahan, Principal Scientist – Animal Health Research at B+LNZ, who led the project, says the test represents a major step forward for parasite management. “Farmers have been asking for faster, clearer information about parasites, and this test delivers exactly that. Earlier detection means better decisions, healthier animals, and less risk of resistance building on farm.”
She says the test has been developed and validated in New Zealand to ensure it performs reliably under local farming conditions. “This is practical, farmer-focused science. It uses the same sample process farmers already know but provides much more accurate information about which worm species are present.”
The test can detect very small amounts of parasite DNA, making it effective even when egg counts are low. This is particularly important in cattle, where faecal egg counts often underestimate infection levels. It also screens for multiple parasite species at once, giving vets and farmers a more complete understanding of parasite pressure.
Igor Obradovic, Head of Business Development at Awanui Veterinary, says the ability to detect infections earlier is a significant advantage. “Barber’s pole worm can cause major losses before egg counts rise. Because this test detects parasite DNA directly, it can pick up infections much earlier and give farmers a timely and precise warning.”
He says the test is designed to work alongside faecal egg counts and is simple to adopt. “Farmers don’t need to change how they collect samples. The test fits straight into existing workflows, providing vets with clearer information to support better drench and stock management decisions.”
Ensuring the test was both accurate and accessible has been a priority. Awanui Veterinary has carried out extensive validation to confirm the test reflects parasite populations in both sheep and cattle. Pricing is the same as standard larval culture, and handling and transport requirements are identical to faecal egg counts. Refrigeration does not affect samples, making the test practical across a range of farm systems.
The new test gives farmers and veterinarians a powerful tool to identify parasite threats earlier and support more informed, timely decisions on farm.
Farmers can access the Fast Worm ID – GIN PCR test through their veterinarian and for the months of April and May, there is a 20% discount on all tests being offered.