It is difficult to quantify the risk of anaplasmosis in any given herd at any given time of year, but when an outbreak occurs, it can result in devastating consequences for a cow-calf herd.Anaplasmosis is most commonly caused by Ana-plasma marginale, a microorganism that invades red blood cells and causes severe anemia. Transmitted through the blood, the main culprits in spreading the disease include biting flies or ticks, or infected blood transferred on contaminated needles or other equipment. The disease can result in death, aborted calves, bull infertility, weight loss and diminished milk production, as well as additional treatment expenses. The risk for disease increases when non-infected cattle mingle with those that carry the disease or when environmental conditions favor increased activity of biting flies or ticks.
展开▼
