Nebraska Cattle Health Update: Bovine Theileriosis and the Asian Longhorned Tick

This episode of the UNL BeefWatch Podcast addresses the growing concern over bovine theileriosis and the Asian longhorn tick in Nebraska, both of which are emerging threats due to the east-to-west spread of the tick vector. Host Aaron Berger is joined by Dr. Matt Hilley, a diagnostic veterinarian and Nebraska Extension Specialist, who explains that while the Asian longhorn tick has not yet been confirmed in Nebraska, its presence in neighboring states like Missouri and Virginia poses a significant risk, particularly to feed yards receiving cattle from affected regions. Theileriosis, caused by the protozoal parasite *Theileria orientalis*, leads to severe anemia, jaundice, and increased susceptibility to other diseases like BRD, with clinical signs often being nonspecific. Dr. Hilley emphasizes that the disease is reportable in Nebraska and that feed yards should be vigilant, especially when importing cattle from high-risk areas. Although the long-term risk to cow-calf operations appears low due to Nebraska’s climate and landscape being less conducive to tick establishment, mechanical transmission via contaminated needles remains a concern. The episode concludes with a call to action for producers to remain aware, submit suspicious ticks for identification, and consider testing for theileriosis in clinically ill animals. Key takeaways include: 1) Theileriosis is a reportable disease in Nebraska and can cause significant health issues in feed yards, especially in cattle from eastern states; 2) The Asian longhorn tick, though not yet established in Nebraska, can be introduced via livestock and poses a risk if environmental conditions become favorable; 3) Clinical signs like jaundice and anemia should prompt testing, as the disease is often mistaken for anaplasmosis; 4) Producers should practice strict biosecurity, including proper tick submission protocols and needle hygiene; and 5) Serologic data from Virginia shows rapid herd-level exposure, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring.