Studies on prevalence, risk indicators and control options for tick infestation in ruminants

An epidemiological study was conducted at Benisuef district to determine the current situation and associated determinants of tick infestations in ruminants and to assess the efficacy of three different types of insecticides against tick infestation under field conditions. Total of (1082) animals of different species (540 cattle, 230 buffaloes, 108 of each sheep & goats and 96 camels) were selected randomly and examined carefully for tick infestation. About (30.1%) of total observed animals were found tick infested with highest rate in cattle (60.5%) followed by goats (25.9%), buffaloes (17.8%), sheep (14.8%) while no tick infestation recorded in camels. The most prevalent tick's species affecting ruminants was Boophilus annulatus (26.5%) followed by Hyalomma anatolicum (6.1%) then Rhipicephalus turanicus (3.4%). Regarding the associated risk factors, tick infestation was found statistically significant (P < 0.05), as the highest infestation rates were recorded in Friesian cow's breed (77.5%), older ages, >3 years (78.8%) followed by at age, ≤2 months (57.8%) and during summer months were found highly significant (P < 0.01) in cattle ( 76.5%) followed by goats and sheep (33.3% & 22.9% resp.,) comparing with results in winter. The preferred sites of ticks' attachment to infested animals were udders and external genitalia (70.7% of each) then Neck & chest (63.0% of each), inner thighs (61.1%), perineum (41.7%), ears (14.6%), around eyes (11.7%). The obtained results revealed that poor husbandry practices of small holder farmers be a determinant making the animals more prone to tick infestation in this district. Improving the hygienic conditions associated with treatment of infested cattle with Ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg b.wt, S/C) and spraying of Deltamethrin (1%) for surrounding environment twice every 14 days are recommended for control of tick infestation under field condition.