LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ark. — A case of a potentially serious cattle disease caused by the protozoal parasite Theileria orientalis Ikeda has been confirmed in Lawrence County, the Lawrence County Extension Office announced.
The organism infects red blood cells, causing disease with signs similar to bovine anaplasmosis. Unlike anaplasmosis, however, theileriosis can affect both calves and adult cattle, including pregnant heifers, according to Extension guidance.
Signs can include anemia, jaundice, fever, lethargy, abortion and occasional death. Producers whose cattle show any of those signs should contact a veterinarian, the county office said.
How the Disease Spreads
The Asian longhorned tick is the primary vector for the parasite. It can also be transferred from one animal to another through blood-contaminated needles or equipment used for dehorning, castration or tagging.
The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture says detecting Theileria in a county strongly suggests the invasive tick is also present. However, the Lawrence County office is seeking samples to confirm whether the tick is in the county and determine how prevalent it may be.
Extension Office Seeking Samples
As producers work cattle this fall, the office is asking those willing to allow sample collection to call 870-886-3741.
A state Extension map updated Sept. 11 lists Lawrence among 19 Arkansas counties with confirmed cases of the Ikeda genotype in cattle. Most of the confirmed counties are in northern Arkansas.
The Division of Agriculture says there is no evidence that the species of Theileria found in cattle affects people. It also says there are currently no approved treatments for theileriosis in cattle.
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