The parasite is carried by the cattle tick and causes anaemia in cattle which may lead to death.
While the tick is carried by numerous other creatures including ducks, deer, horses, dogs, rabbits and pigs, it appears that only cattle (beef and dairy) are affected.
The tick has a very complicated life cycle and it appears that pasture management can play a role in keeping ticks under control and good animal husbandry practices can help manage the disease in cattle.
It is found throughout most of the North Island and in some small pockets of the South Island where infection is usually due to cattle movements from an infected area.
The symptoms of theileria include pale white or yellow gums, vulva and eyelids (all signs of anaemia), the whites of the eyes showing yellow (a sign of jaundice), and tiredness.
Experienced farmers say that if the cow pants on the way to milking, it's likely she would have the disease.
If theileria is suspected, the vet can diagnose the illness and will discuss treatment and management of the animals.
Usually it's a case of TLC: keeping the cow close to the shed so she doesn't have to walk far, not pushing her, and feeding her well.
Antibiotic treatment comes with very long milk and meat withholding periods, making it uneconomical for most farmers.
Blood transfusion is another option.
Many farmers will be looking to send their calves and heifers off to another location for raising which carries a risk as there may be ticks present which could infect the young stock.
In order to help farmers assess the risks, a decision tool has been developed by the industry - surveymonkey.
com/s/3ZNZFLJ.
DairyNZ has more information about the disease.
