Emerging cattle disease confirmed in Iowa: Missouri producers urged to stay informed and vigilant
LEWIS COUNTY, Mo. — An emerging cattle disease, Theileria orientalis ikeda, has been confirmed in both Missouri and Iowa, prompting Extension experts to urge producers to stay informed and work closely with veterinarians.
According to an April 2024 University of Missouri Extension news release, the disease was initially confirmed in six Missouri counties. As of December 2024, there are now 18 counties, according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture Reportable Diseases map. Now, a case has also been documented in Iowa, marking the first confirmed occurrence in that state. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has also issued a warning to producers, emphasizing the potential threat to herd health.
Theileria orientalis ikeda is a tick-borne protozoal disease that causes anemia and weakness in cattle and, in severe cases, can result in death. It is transmitted primarily by the Asian longhorned tick, which has been found in several states, including Missouri. Once infected, cattle become lifelong carriers, and there are currently no approved vaccines or effective treatments available in the United States.
MU Extension’s guidesheet, G2113 – Theileria orientalis: An Emerging Cattle Disease in Missouri, offers essential information for producers, including:
- Clinical signs to watch for (e.g., increased temperature, pale mucous membranes, lethargy)
- Transmission routes
- Prevention strategies, including tick control
- Diagnostic recommendations
“With cases now confirmed in both Missouri and Iowa, producers in our region should be alert,” said Brenda Schreck, MU Extension Livestock Specialist, in a press release. “Monitoring cattle closely and working with a veterinarian is key. Early detection and strong tick prevention efforts can help limit the spread.”
If you notice unexplained illness, weakness, or death loss in your herd, contact your veterinarian to discuss testing and management options.
For more information:
Missouri Extension April 2024 news release: https://extension.missouri.edu/news/emerging-cattle-disease-found-in-missouri
Missouri Department of Agriculture – Reportable Diseases Theileria map: https://agriculture.mo.gov/animals/pdf/theileria-map.pdf
MU Extension guidesheet G2113: https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g2113
Iowa Extension article: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/beef-cattle-disease-confirmed-iowa-first-time
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