The University of Arkansas is currently conducting a survey on cattle producer awareness of anaplasmosis risk and transmission to livestock in Arkansas.
Anaplasmosis turns an animal’s immune system against itself, destroying both healthy and infected red blood cells, which can starve the animal of oxygen. In some cases, anaplasmosis can cause calves to be aborted or slow gains in cattle. If anaplasmosis does not kill the infected animal, the animal carries anaplasmosis for life, becoming a reservoir for the disease.
Losses from the disease are difficult to quantify, because of the many ways anaplasmosis can kill or hinder cattle, said Heidi Ward, extension veterinarian for the Division of Agriculture. In some cases, anaplasmosis can cause calves to be aborted or slow gains in cattle. A study published in 2014 puts the annual loss to the U.S. beef cattle industry at $300 million.
To participate in this survey please go to this website.
