Dairy webinar will discuss theileriosis

AMES — The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach dairy team’s monthly webinar series continues Tuesday, July 22, from noon to 1 p.m. with a discussion about theileriosis and Asian longhorned ticks.

This program will be presented by several Iowa State Veterinary College personnel: Dr. Matt Brewer, Dr. Grant Dewell, Dr. Chelsea Hamilton and Dr. Phillip Jardon.

Theileriosis, which is caused by Theileria orientalis Ikeda and spread via Asian longhorned ticks has been found in beef herds in southeast Iowa. While this disease is primarily of concern to beef producers, dairy animals on pasture may also be affected.

Brewer will provide an overview of what is known about the theileriosis and how it has spread from the East Coast to the Midwest over the past decade. Dewell will cover the disease’s current status in Iowa and provide guidance on control and diagnostics.

Regulatory aspects and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s position on the situation will be covered by Hamilton, and Dr. Jardon will provide insights and answer questions during the question-and-answer session.

Producers, dairy consultants and industry representatives are encouraged to attend the webinar, which is available at no cost. Participants must register online at least one hour before the start time.

For more information, contact the ISU Extension and Outreach dairy field specialist in your area: in northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in east central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate.edu.