Vet Dept puts January disease under control

Precious Manomano

Herald Reporter

Persistent vaccination and effective disease management strategies have helped control the spread of Theileriosis, commonly known as January disease, across the country, the Directorate of Veterinary Services has said.

Previously, this tick-borne infection posed a severe threat to the nation’s cattle population, but it is now being mitigated through continued Government and community initiatives.

Farmers have been urged to dip their cattle as a preventive measure to combat the disease that has historically led to substantial economic losses.

In response to the growing challenge posed by tick-borne diseases, the Government has implemented the Integrated Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Control Strategy.

Directorate of Veterinary Services chief director Dr Pious Makaya indicated that the multifaceted approach, which includes intensive cattle dipping, vaccination and acaricide resistance monitoring, is essential in reducing infection rates and enhancing cattle health.

“Acaricide resistance monitoring has become increasingly crucial. This ongoing surveillance evaluates how different tick species resist specific dipping chemicals. Understanding the evolutionary patterns of ticks enables the Government to prevent dipping failures, ensuring that farmers can effectively manage and protect their cattle,” he said.

Dr Makaya also said cases of Theileriosis are under control.

“The current incidence of Theileriosis is relatively low and stable, but we must remain vigilant.”

He cautioned that peak cases typically spike between February and March.

“Consistent weekly dipping is the only way to combat cattle mortality effectively,” he said, urging farmers to maintain rigorous dipping schedules despite potential inconvenience.

The symptoms of Theileriosis include high fever, weakness, loss of appetite and notably, cloudiness of the eyes.

Farmers are encouraged to recognise these signs early, as timely intervention can mean the difference between recovery and further losses in their herds.

The Directorate employs several strategies, such as plunge dips and spray races, which effectively ensure complete coverage of cattle during treatment.

For smaller herds, knapsack sprayers may be used, albeit with proper animal restraint to treat hard-to-reach areas adequately.

For confirmed cases, a recommended dipping regime on specific days optimises treatment efficacy.

The vital role of the “BOLVAC” Theileriosis vaccine has been pivotal in saving over 70 percent of affected herds when administered correctly.

The Government’s positive stance this year includes the implementation of a robust National Dipping Programme, which aims to support over 800 000 families dependent on livestock.

This initiative focuses on restoring the functionality of the country’s 4 211 dip tanks.

Dr  Makaya said under the Animal Health Act, dipping is a legal requirement, making compliance not just advisable but necessary to avoid fines.

The Government has also announced plans to construct 40 new dip tanks and rehabilitate 200 existing ones to ensure comprehensive access nationwide.

As severe tick activity is expected during the current rainy season, mandatory weekly dipping has been instituted.

As part of a broader strategy for the 2025-2026 summer months, vaccination efforts will be intensified, prioritising locally produced vaccines to build long-term herd immunity.

Already, 60 000 communal cattle have been vaccinated against Theileriosis in identified hotspots, alongside an additional 40 000 cattle inoculated against Babesia and Anaplasma.

To assist farmers in regions with water shortages, the directorate has provided pour-on treatments to 8 000 families in remote areas where traditional dipping methods are impractical.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to drill 20 boreholes at strategic dip tanks to facilitate uninterrupted dipping throughout the year.