THE FUSE

Tick-borne diseases pose a significant threat to livestock production in Southern Africa, affecting cattle, goats, sheep, and other farm animals. These diseases are caused by pathogens transmitted through the bites of infected ticks, leading to reduced productivity, poor weight gain, lowered milk yields, and in severe cases, death. Among the most common tick-borne diseases in the region are East Coast Fever, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis (redwater), Heartwater, and Tick-borne Fever. Farmers often face challenges in detecting these diseases early, as symptoms can be subtle in the initial stages. Awareness, early detection, and effective control measures are critical to maintaining healthy herds and sustaining farm income.