By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) have confirmed the first known occurrence of the Asian longhorned tick (ALHT) in Kansas.
The tick was identified after being found on a dog in Franklin County last week, marking the species’ first recorded appearance in the state.
The Asian longhorned tick is an invasive and exotic species first detected in the United States in New Jersey in 2017. Since then, it has steadily spread westward and, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), has now been documented in 21 states, with Kansas being the newest addition.
“We have been monitoring the spread of the Asian longhorned tick, especially since it was confirmed in neighboring states,” said Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith. “Now that it has been identified in Kansas, we have been in contact with accredited veterinarians across the state to remind them to be alert for this tick and to ensure they understand the risks.”
This tick species is known for its rapid reproduction—it can reproduce asexually, leading to large infestations on affected animals. Such infestations can cause severe anemia or blood loss in livestock and pets. Additionally, the tick can transmit Theileria orientalis Ikeda, a parasite responsible for theileriosis in cattle, which can impact animal health and productivity.
Fortunately, the Asian longhorned tick is susceptible to common preventatives used for livestock and pets. It is also a reportable parasite in Kansas, meaning all suspected or confirmed cases must be reported.
Individuals can contact KDA at (785) 564-6601 to report sightings or submit tick samples to the Kansas Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for confirmation and further testing.
The detection highlights the importance of biosecurity and monitoring to protect both animal and public health across Kansas.
Photo Credit:kansas-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kansas, General