Management of Endo- and Ectoparasites in Pigs in Zimbabwe Using Ashiver Injection

Introduction

Pig production is an important component of Zimbabwe’s livestock industry, providing income, employment, and a valuable source of animal protein. However, internal and external parasites remain a major constraint to profitable pig farming. These parasites reduce growth rates, impair feed conversion efficiency, lower reproductive performance, and increase susceptibility to disease. Effective parasite control is therefore an essential component of herd health management.

Ashiver (Ivermectin 1% Injection) is a broad-spectrum endectocide that provides effective control of both endoparasites and ectoparasites in pigs. Its wide spectrum of activity, ease of administration and proven efficacy make it an important tool in parasite control programmes for commercial and smallholder pig producers in Zimbabwe.

Understanding Endo- and Ectoparasites in Pigs

Endoparasites

Endoparasites live inside the pig’s body, mainly in the gastrointestinal tract and lungs. Common internal parasites affecting pigs in Zimbabwe include:

Large roundworm (Ascaris suum)
Nodular worms (Oesophagostomum spp.)
Threadworms (Strongyloides ransomi)
Red stomach worms (Hyostrongylus rubidus)
Lungworms (Metastrongylus spp.)

Heavy infestations may result in:

Poor weight gain
Reduced feed efficiency
Pot-bellied appearance
Rough hair coat
Diarrhoea
Coughing and respiratory problems
Reduced reproductive performance
Increased mortality in young piglets.

Ectoparasites

External parasites attack the skin and hair coat of pigs. The most important include:

Sarcoptic mange mites (Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis)
Sucking lice (Haematopinus suis)

Clinical signs include:

Severe itching
Skin thickening
Hair loss
Restlessness
Reduced feed intake
Lower daily weight gain
Skin damage that reduces carcass quality.

Ashiver (Ivermectin 1%)

Ashiver is a sterile injectable solution containing 10 mg ivermectin per millilitre (1%). Ivermectin belongs to the macrocyclic lactone group of antiparasitic drugs and acts by interfering with nerve transmission in parasites, leading to paralysis and death while having a wide safety margin in mammals when used correctly.

Spectrum of Activity in Pigs

Ashiver controls both internal and external parasites simultaneously.

Internal parasites controlled

Ascaris suum
Strongyloides ransomi
Hyostrongylus rubidus
Oesophagostomum sp.
Metastrongylus sp. (lungworms)

External parasites controlled

Sarcoptic mange mites
Sucking lice

Treating both groups of parasites with one injection reduceslabour costs and simplifies parasite management on pig farms. Administration and Dosage

Ashiver is administered by subcutaneous (SC) injection, preferably in the loose skin of the neck.

The commonly recommended ivermectin dose for pigs is:

300 micrograms per kilogram body weight, equivalent to approximately 1 mL per 33 kg body weight for standard ivermectin 1% formulations used specifically in swine.

Ashiver product information provides a general livestock dose of 1 mL per 50 kg, so farmers should always follow the advice of a veterinarian.

Recommended Parasite Control Programme

A strategic deworming programme is more effective than treating only when clinical signs appear.

A practical programme includes:

Treat breeding sows 7-14 days before farrowing to reduce transmission of parasites to piglets.
Treat replacement gilts before breeding and again before farrowing.
Treat breeding boars at least twice annually or according to parasite risk.
Deworm weaners before moving them into clean housing.
Repeat treatments where pigs are continuously exposed to contaminated pens or outdoor environments.

Good Management Practices

Medication alone cannot eliminate parasites. Successful control also requires:

Regular cleaning and disinfection of pig houses
Removal of manure to reduce parasite contamination
Provision of clean drinking water
Good nutrition to strengthen immunity
Quarantine and treatment of newly introduced pigs
Rotation and sanitation of outdoor grazing areas where feasible
Routine veterinary monitoring

These management practices reduce reinfection and prolong the effectiveness of antiparasitic drugs.

Precautions

To ensure safe and effective use:

Use only the recommended dose.
Weigh pigs accurately to avoid under dosing.
Use sterile needles and proper injection techniques.
Observe the recommended meat withdrawal period stated on the product label before slaughter.
Store the product below the recommended temperature and protect it from direct sunlight.
Avoid frequent unnecessary treatments, as overuse of ivermectin can contribute to the development of parasite resistance.

Conclusion

Parasite infestations remain one of the major challenges limiting pig production in Zimbabwe. Internal parasites reduce growth and productivity, while external parasites compromise animal welfare, skin quality and overall herd performance. Ashiver (Ivermectin 1%) provides an effective, broad-spectrum solution by controlling both endoparasites and ectoparasites with a single injectable treatment. When incorporated into a comprehensive herd health programme that includes good hygiene, biosecurity, proper nutrition and strategic deworming, Ashiver can significantly improve pig health, productivity and farm profitability. Used responsibly and according to veterinary recommendations, it remains a valuable component of sustainable pig production systems in Zimbabwe.