What does anaplasmosis do to cattle?

Table of Contents

The Anaplasma organism invades the red blood cells of infected cattle and the spleen destroys the infected cells. As a result, infected animals become anemic, weak, lethargic, go off feed, and run a fever. The mucous membranes become pale and possibly yellow from the waste products of red blood cell destruction.

What are the signs of anaplasmosis in cattle?

The main signs of anaplasmosis are fever, jaundice and anorexia. Additional clinical signs may include progressive anemia (pale gums and eyes), weakness, inappetence, loss of coordination, aggression, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, decreased milk production, brown urine, and sudden death.

Can humans get anaplasmosis from cattle?

The disease causes severe and potentially fatal anemia in cattle but poses no threat to humans.

What are the signs of anaplasmosis?

The signs and symptoms of anaplasmosis may include:

Fever.
Severe headache.
Muscle aches.
Chills and shaking.
Less frequent symptoms of anaplasmosis include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, cough, diarrhea, aching joints and change in mental status.

How is anaplasmosis treated?

Doxycycline is the treatment of choice for anaplasmosis, and all other tickborne rickettsial diseases. Presumptive treatment with doxycycline is recommended in patients of all ages, including children <8 years.

How do you prevent anaplasmosis in cattle?

Therefore, control of vectors is key to preventing anaplasmosis. If necessary herd treatment with oxytetracycline injection every 3 to 4 weeks during high risk times may be necessary will prevent clinical disease but animals can become carriers. Chlortetracycline also known as CTC can reduce the risk of anaplasmosis.

Can anaplasmosis be cured?

Anaplasmosis is treatable but it can be a serious and sometimes fatal disease.

What is the treatment for anaplasmosis?

Treatment. Anaplasmosis patients typically respond dramatically to doxycycline therapy (100 mg twice daily until the patient is afebrile for at least 3 days). Other tetracycline drugs also are likely to be effective.