Among a recent string of deaths in beef cattle herds, at least one death has been confirmed due to anaplasmosis. Anaplasmosis has been detected in several beef herds in counties west in recent years. As the organism spreads, it may become more prevalent in Adair County.
The organism Anaplasmosis marginale is commonly transmitted via ticks and lives in red blood cells.
Infection with the organism can result in reduced growth, reproductive loss, depressed milk production and death. Due to the nature of ticks, infections are most often observed during the summer months.
Anaplasmosis can also spread via or biting insects (mosquitoes, horse flies, stable flies) and via blood contaminated materials such as needles are palpation sleeves.
Intrauterine transmission during pregnancy may also occur resulting in a persistently infected calf. The calf may never develop clinical symptoms but will serve as a source of infection within the herd.
Symptoms in cattle are generally not observed in young cattle but become more observed as cattle reach maturity.
Producers who suspect Anaplasmosis within their herd should work closely with a veterinarian to test animals and establish a treatment protocol if needed. The UK Veterinary Diagnostic Lab provides blood testing services and necropsy of dead animals.
Control efforts for Anaplasmosis include insecticidal spray, disinfecting veterinary equipment, and using disposable needles and other veterinary supplies for each individual animal. Detailed publications and resources on Anaplasmosis are available at the Adair County Cooperative Extension office.
Master Cattleman Program
The Master Cattleman program is arguably a flagship program of the UK Cooperative Extension Service offering cattle producers an in-depth educational opportunity on all things cattle related.
The Adair and Russell County Cooperative Extension Service are teaming up to offer this program starting on Oct 28.
The Master Cattlemen program consists of six 3-hours session focusing on beef production and the industry. All sessions are taught by UK Extension specialist. Registration for the program is $100 per person and covers meals and material. Each session starts at 5:30 p.m. and will rotate locations between Adair and Russell County. The full schedule of the program is as follows:
• Oct. 28: Marketing and Profitability with Kevin Laurent, UK Beef Specialist
• Oct. 30: Genetics with Dr. Darrh Bullock, UK Beef Genetic Specialist
• Nov. 6: Herd Health with Dr. Michelle Arnold, UK Vet
• Nov. 13: Reproduction and Record Keeping with Dr. Les Anderson, UK Beef Reproduction Specialist
• Nov. 20: Nutrition with Dr. Katie VanValin, UK Beef Nutritionist
• Nov. 25 – Facilities and Winter-Feeding with Dr. Katie VanValin, UK Beef Nutritionist
To register for the program, contact the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service at 270-384-2317.
