Tick Identified In Putnam That’s Known To Carry Cattle Disease

A tick that is known to carry a disease that infects a cow’s blood has been found in Putnam County.

The Asian Longhorned Tick is a common carrier of the tick-borne parasite theileria orientalis. Putnam County Ag Extension Agent Wayne Key said he identified the tick this week after a local resident found one.

“It gives off the effect of anemia in cattle,” Key said. “Once the cattle herd or animals are infected, they show signs of illness and lethargy. Ultimately, some animals can die from this.”

The parasite was detected in a herd of cattle in Maury County causing the state veterinary to announce its detection Thursday. Key said no cases have been reported in the Upper Cumberland.

“This Asian Longhorned Tick has been around here since 2017,” Key said. “It originated oversees from the south pacific. We first detected it in about seven states in earlier 2019. So it’s been around. We’re just seeing some issues and state vets are working to identify the cause.”

Key said humans are not at risk and meats from infected cattle can be safely consumed. Key said the tick species are smaller than others, solid brown to black with no markings and have long antennas.

“They are a little bit smaller than the lone star tick, so they are not to be confused,” Key said. “The lone star tick has a white spot on its back. That’s a larger tick. This particular tick is smaller. The most mature ones are about half of an inch.”

Key said cattle producers should take steps to protect their herd by keeping livestock out of wooded areas. Key said you can also use chemicals, ear tags and back rubbers.