By Scout Nelson
Researchers at the University of Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station are working to find effective treatments for theileriosis, a serious disease affecting cattle. This disease is caused by the parasite Theileria orientalis Ikeda and is mainly spread by the Asian longhorned tick.
The problem has grown quickly in recent years. In Arkansas, the number of cases increased sharply in 2025, only a year after the disease was first confirmed in the state. Around the same time, the tick responsible for spreading the disease was also found in Kansas. This rapid spread has raised concerns about cattle health across regions.
At present, there are no approved medicines or vaccines in the United States to treat or prevent this disease. Because of this, researchers are focusing on finding quick and practical solutions. A research grant worth 492218 dollars from the United States Department of Agriculture has been provided for this two-year study.
The study will test two main treatment methods. First, scientists will evaluate a prescription anti-tick vaccine that may offer long-term protection. Second, they will test a slow-release parasiticide called eprinomectin. This treatment will be used along with commonly available tick control products.
The effectiveness of eprinomectin will also be compared with two existing pyrethroid-based products. Since these treatments are already available in the market, they may be adopted quickly if proven effective.
Theileriosis shows symptoms like another disease called anaplasmosis. Affected cattle may experience weight loss, low milk production, reduced appetite, anemia, and reproductive problems. However, one key difference is that theileriosis can affect cattle of all ages, while anaplasmosis mainly impacts older animals.
This research is important for protecting cattle and ensuring stable livestock production. Finding reliable treatment methods will help control disease spread and reduce economic losses.
For more information, visit: https://ksvdl.org/resources/news/diagnostic_insights/april2022/theileria.html
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Beef Cattle