Goats who develop Meningeal Worm infection get it by ingesting the intermediate host, a slug or snail, while browsing in wet areas, such as ponds or swamps, or under dead leaves, branches, and trees. Warm weather in early winter and the resulting lack of snow cover has made this disease quite common in the eastern part of the United States. Goat producers who raise alpacas, llamas, or related ruminants will find that these camelids are more susceptible to Meningeal Worm disease than goats or sheep. The producer should suspect Meningeal Worm disease if the goat displays neurologic signs or any problem involving the spinal cord, from leg dragging to inability to get up. The disease can be a slow progression of symptoms or can strike suddenly.
Pneumonia is a common secondary problem, given that the goat is down and therefore inactive.
Treatment involves very high dosages of injectable ivermectin. Ivermectin paste or pour-on are not effective. If the goat is down and can't get up on its own, the chance for recovery is not good. An anti-inflammatory drug like Banamine can be useful in alleviating the inflammation of nerve tissue. Dexamethozone may also be used, but it can cause abortions in pregnant does.