Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Bovine Theileriasis in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Bovine Theileriasis in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

Background: Bovine theileriasis, caused primarily by Theileria annulata, is one of the major tick-borne diseases affecting cattle production in Pakistan. The disease causes substantial economic losses through decreased milk production, poor growth, reproductive disorders, and mortality, particularly in crossbred cattle. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of bovine theileriasis and identify the major risk factors associated with Theileria annulata infection in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in rural and peri-urban areas of Dera Ismail Khan. Clinically suspected cattle and buffalo exhibiting fever, enlarged lymph nodes, anemia, and tick infestation were examined. Giemsa-stained blood smears were microscopically evaluated for Theileria piroplasms. Information regarding age, breed, sex, season, tick infestation, and management practices was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed descriptively. Results: The prevalence of bovine. theileriasis ranged between. 18–35%. Crossbred cattle showed. significantly higher. infection rates (38–45%). than indigenous breeds (12–18%). Disease occurrence was. highest during June–September, corresponding. with peak Hyalomma tick activity. Calves younger than. one year and lactating cows. were the most. susceptible groups. Heavy tick infestation, poor housing. sanitation, communal grazing, and irregular acaricide. application were identified. as the major risk factors. Conclusion: Bovine theileriasis. remains an important constraint. to livestock production. in Dera Ismail Khan. Strategic tick control, early diagnosis, appropriate. chemotherapy, and farmer awareness programs. are essential for. effective disease management.