Iowa has confirmed its first case of Theileriosis, a tick-borne disease affecting cattle, caused by the protozoan parasite. This parasite is transmitted by the invasive Asian longhorned tick (ALHT), which was first identified in the U.S. in 2017 but likely arrived earlier.
The disease causes bovine infectious anemia, affecting red and white blood cells, and can lead to lethargy, jaundice, anemia, breathing difficulties, and reproductive issues. With no approved treatment in the U.S., Iowa veterinary officials stress the importance of biosecurity and tick control methods such as insecticide ear tags, pour-ons, and backrubbers.
These ticks are small, brown, and hard to detect, making monitoring crucial. Iowa State veterinarians urge livestock producers to regularly check cattle for signs of tick infestations, especially when introducing animals to new pastures.
Photo Credit: FarmWeekNow
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