Tick-Borne Disease Found In Kansas Cattle

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EPISODE 65 DETAILS
Tick-Borne Disease Found In Kansas Cattle
Theileria Orientalis Ikeda: A New Threat to Kansas Cattle Linked to the Asian Longhorned Tick

A newly detected red blood cell parasite, Theileria orientalis Ikeda, has raised alarm in Kansas cattle herds. This parasite, linked to the invasive Asian longhorned tick (ALHT), causes a disease known as theileriosis or bovine infectious anemia, posing a significant threat to livestock health and production.

What is Theileria Orientalis Ikeda?

When Theileria orientalis Ikeda enters the bloodstream, it destroys red blood cells, causing anemia in infected cattle. This depletion of red blood cells hampers oxygen transport throughout the animal's body, leading to severe health complications.

How is Theileriosis Spread?

Theileriosis primarily spreads through contaminated needles and insect vectors, with the Asian longhorned tick being a key carrier. Scientifically known as Haemaphysalis longicornis, this invasive tick originated in Eastern Asia. It is believed to have been introduced to the United States around 2010, with its presence first confirmed in 2017 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While mainly found in the eastern United States, efforts are ongoing to curb its westward spread.

Recent Cases in Kansas

Reports indicate that infected cattle in Kansas were purchased from Virginia and transported to the state for feeding. While the Asian long-horned tick has been identified in neighboring states like Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, it has not yet been detected in Kansas.

The Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory urges cattle producers to exercise caution when importing livestock from other states. Familiarizing oneself with the symptoms of bovine infectious anemia is critical for early detection and containment.

Symptoms of Theileriosis in Cattle

Cattle infected with Theileria orientalis Ikeda may exhibit symptoms such as:

Anemia

Loss of appetite

Lethargy

Fever

Reduced milk production

Difficulty breathing

Yellowing of mucous membranes

Foamy nasal discharge

Abortion

Sudden death

Pregnant heifers, calves, and stressed animals are particularly vulnerable. While no vaccine exists for theileriosis, infected animals can recover, though they often remain carriers, capable of spreading the disease to healthy cattle.

Protecting Kansas Cattle

Producers are encouraged to:

Inspect Imported Livestock: Screen cattle for signs of illness before integrating them into local herds.

Monitor for Ticks: Watch for signs of the Asian longhorned tick and implement tick control measures.

Consult Veterinarians: Work closely with veterinarians to manage and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

By staying vigilant and proactive, Kansas cattle producers can help protect their herds from this emerging threat.

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