Be On The Lookout for Ticks of All Kinds
Ponca City Now - August 8, 2024 6:00 am
The Asian longhorned tick has recently been identified from cattle in Mayes County in northeast Oklahoma.
The Asian longhorned tick is of particular concern for livestock, especially cattle. Tick populations on cattle can become so numerous that the animals become stressed, lose weight, reduce milk production, become anemic, and in some cases, die. Animals should be monitored for any changes in behavior or body condition, and if changes are noted, should be inspected for the presence of the species. Of greatest concern regarding the Asian longhorned tick and cattle is the tick’s ability to transmit the pathogenic Ikeda genotype of cattle theileriosis. Symptoms are similar to anaplasmosis and include fever, anemia, pale coloration of the mucous membranes, and weakness. At this time, the pathogenic Ikeda genotype of cattle theileriosis has not been documented in Oklahoma.
For more information on the Asian longhorned tick, contact your local county Extension office read the pest alert here → https://okla.st/46A0jsh