Theileriosis in Cattle & Buffalo (Tick Fever)

What is theileriosis?

Theileriosis is a disease caused by Theileria, a tiny blood parasite. In India the main type is tropical theileriosis, caused by Theileria annulata and spread by the bite of Hyalomma ticks. Farmers often call it tick fever. The parasite first multiplies in the lymph nodes (glands) and then enters the red blood cells, which it damages.

Crossbred and exotic cattle, such as Jersey and Holstein crosses, usually suffer more than local breeds. Buffaloes can be infected too, often with milder signs. Cases rise in the hot months when ticks are active. Animals that recover can stay carriers, and ticks can pick the parasite up from them. Theileriosis does not spread to people.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• High fever that does not settle
• Swollen glands, especially in front of the shoulder
• A sharp drop in milk and poor appetite
• Pale or yellowish gums and eyes
• Watery eyes and nasal discharge
• Fast breathing or a cough in severe cases

Not every animal shows every sign, and carriers may show none. Pregnant animals may abort, and young calves can become very ill.

Which lab tests help

A Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear) is a stained blood film checked under a microscope for parasites in the red cells. Your vet may also take a needle sample from a swollen gland for FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology), where an early stage of the parasite can be seen. Smears work well in sick animals but can miss carriers.

Theileria annulata RT-PCR finds the parasite's DNA even when very few are present. The Bovine Tick Fever RT-PCR Panel (Theileria, Babesia & Anaplasma) typically looks for Theileria, Babesia and Anaplasma together; the exact list is confirmed when you book. The Theileria annulata Antibody ELISA shows whether an animal has met the parasite, which helps in herd checks, but it cannot say whether the infection is active now. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) shows how anaemic the animal is, and the Tick Fever Panel for Cattle & Buffalo (Theileriosis, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis) checks for the three main tick fevers together.

A registered veterinarian interprets every result together with the animal's signs and history. The lab confirms the method, sample needs and reporting time when you book.

When to see your vet

See your vet promptly if a cow or buffalo has a high fever, swollen glands or a sudden drop in milk, especially if ticks are present. An animal that is weak, breathing hard or not eating needs a vet the same day, because theileriosis can get worse quickly. Ask your vet about vaccination, tick control and other prevention for your herd.

Testing in Bhopal

Free sample collection is available anywhere in Bhopal from Pashupatinath Vet Lab, which is at C-200, C Sector, Shahpura, Bhopal. From other districts, blood samples can come by courier, by bus parcel or through your local vet. Phone or WhatsApp +91 88175 01118 to arrange it. Reports are shared on WhatsApp, by e-mail and in My Reports on the website.